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Humor and Quirks
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Humor and Quirks
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The biggest college football quarterback competitions still undecided feature elite teams

College Football Quarterback Competitions Heating Up Ahead of 2025 Season

As the 2025 college football season approaches, one of the most intriguing storylines across the nation revolves around the heated quarterback battles unfolding in training camps and fall practices. From powerhouse programs in the SEC to up-and-coming teams in the Big Ten, these competitions are not just about naming a starter—they're about shaping the identity of teams, influencing playoff aspirations, and even impacting coaching legacies. With the expanded College Football Playoff format now in its second year, the pressure is on to find the right signal-caller who can lead their squad to glory. This year's crop of QB rivalries features a mix of highly touted transfers, returning veterans, and promising freshmen, each bringing unique skills and backstories to the fray.

Starting in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), where quarterback play often defines championship runs, the University of Georgia Bulldogs are at the center of a compelling duel. Carson Beck, the incumbent starter who guided the team to a national title appearance two years ago, faces stiff competition from Gunner Stockton, a redshirt sophomore with elite arm talent and mobility. Beck's experience gives him an edge in reading defenses and managing high-stakes games, but Stockton's dual-threat capabilities have turned heads in scrimmages. Head coach Kirby Smart has emphasized that the battle is open, praising Stockton's growth in the pocket while noting Beck's leadership qualities. Analysts predict Beck will hold onto the job, but an injury or inconsistent performance could swing the pendulum. This competition is crucial for Georgia, as they aim to reclaim dominance in a conference loaded with talent like Alabama and Texas.

Speaking of Alabama, the Crimson Tide's quarterback room is buzzing with uncertainty following the departure of Jalen Milroe to the NFL. The battle pits redshirt freshman Julian Sayin against transfer Austin Mack from Washington. Sayin, a former five-star recruit, brings precision passing and poise, honed from his time learning under previous staffs. Mack, however, offers immediate experience, having started games in the Pac-12 last season where he threw for over 2,000 yards. New head coach Kalen DeBoer, known for his offensive wizardry from his Washington days, has implemented a scheme that favors quick reads and rhythm throws, which could favor Sayin's accuracy. Tide fans are anxious, as the winner will be tasked with upholding Alabama's storied tradition in a rebuilt roster facing a tough schedule including road trips to LSU and Oklahoma.

Shifting to the Big Ten, the Michigan Wolverines are navigating a post-J.J. McCarthy era with a three-way race that's captured national attention. Alex Orji, a dual-threat athlete who saw limited action last year, is competing against Davis Warren, a pocket passer with strong fundamentals, and true freshman Jadyn Davis, a highly rated prospect from North Carolina. Orji's athleticism allows for explosive plays on the ground, reminiscent of past Michigan QBs like Denard Robinson, but his passing consistency has been questioned. Warren provides stability, having impressed in spring games with his decision-making. Davis, meanwhile, represents the future, with coaches raving about his arm strength and football IQ. Under head coach Sherrone Moore, who took over after Jim Harbaugh's NFL move, the emphasis is on a balanced offense that leverages Michigan's vaunted running game. The outcome could determine if the Wolverines remain playoff contenders or slip in a conference now including USC and Oregon.

Out west in the Big 12, the Oklahoma Sooners are embroiled in a high-profile contest between Jackson Arnold and Michael Hawkins. Arnold, who started as a freshman last season, showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with turnovers in key losses. Hawkins, a speedy transfer from TCU, brings a dynamic element with his scrambling ability and deep-ball accuracy. Coach Brent Venables has lauded both for their work ethic, but the battle is intensified by Oklahoma's transition to the SEC this year—wait, actually, that move happened in 2024, but the 2025 implications are huge as they face stiffer competition. Arnold's familiarity with the system might give him the nod, but Hawkins' upside could lead to a timeshare if neither separates.

In the ACC, Florida State Seminoles are dealing with the aftermath of Jordan Travis's injury-riddled final season. DJ Uiagalelei, the veteran transfer from Clemson and Oregon State, is the presumed favorite, but he's challenged by Brock Glenn, a sophomore who stepped up in emergencies last year. Uiagalelei's size and experience make him a prototypical pro-style QB, but his inconsistency has plagued him at previous stops. Glenn offers mobility and a fresh arm, potentially fitting better into Mike Norvell's up-tempo offense. The Seminoles, coming off a disappointing 2024, need this position solidified to challenge Clemson and Miami for conference supremacy.

The Pac-12's dissolution has scattered talent, but programs like USC in the Big Ten are adapting. Lincoln Riley's Trojans feature a battle between Miller Moss, who shone in the Holiday Bowl, and UNLV transfer Jayden Maiava. Moss's pocket presence and rapport with receivers give him an inside track, but Maiava's gunslinger mentality and success at UNLV (leading them to a bowl win) add intrigue. Riley's track record with QBs like Caleb Williams suggests whoever wins will thrive, but USC's defensive woes mean the offense must carry the load.

Beyond these marquee programs, smaller schools are seeing fascinating QB tussles. At Notre Dame, Steve Angeli and Riley Leonard (transfer from Duke) are vying for the spot, with Leonard's experience edging him ahead despite injury concerns. In the Group of Five, Boise State's Malachi Nelson (USC transfer) battles incumbent Maddux Madsen, promising an explosive offense in the Mountain West.

These competitions highlight broader trends: the transfer portal's impact, where players like Mack and Uiagalelei seek fresh starts; the rise of dual-threat QBs adapting to modern schemes; and the pressure on coaches to develop talent amid NIL deals influencing decisions. Injuries, as seen in past seasons, could upend any battle, and some teams might opt for rotations early on. As fall camps progress, expect updates and surprises—after all, in college football, the QB position is where dreams are made or broken.

Fan anticipation is palpable, with message boards and podcasts dissecting every practice rep. For teams like Georgia and Alabama, a strong QB could mean a playoff berth; for others, it's about building momentum. As the season kicks off in late August, these battles will resolve, but their ripples will be felt throughout the year, potentially deciding conference titles and Heisman contenders. College football's essence lies in these uncertainties, making 2025 another thrilling chapter in the sport's storied history.

(Word count: 928)

Read the Full USA Today Article at:
[ https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2025/08/11/college-foootball-quarterback-competitions/85337200007/ ]