The Evolving Landscape of College Football Quarterbacks in 2025

A Shifting Paradigm

The quarterback position in college football has always been the fulcrum of a team’s success, but in 2025, the dynamics are more volatile than ever. The transfer portal has revolutionized roster construction, turning stability into a luxury rather than a given. Programs now face a high-stakes balancing act—developing talent while navigating the ever-changing transfer market. Some teams enter the season with established stars, while others scramble to fill glaring voids. This analysis breaks down the key trends, standout players, and the programs facing the most uncertainty.

Teams Facing Quarterback Quandaries

Georgia: Life After Ewers

With Quinn Ewers likely departing for the NFL, Georgia finds itself at a crossroads. The Bulldogs have thrived under elite quarterback play, but replacing a talent like Ewers is no small task. The transfer portal may offer a quick fix, but finding a leader who can handle the pressure of SEC competition is another challenge entirely.

Florida: The DJ Lagway Experiment

DJ Lagway arrives with sky-high expectations, but the transition from high school phenom to SEC starter is rarely seamless. Florida’s offense hinges on his ability to adapt quickly. If he struggles, the Gators could face another disappointing season.

The Transfer Portal Domino Effect

Several programs are dealing with the fallout of quarterback departures. Teams like Notre Dame (after losing Pat Coogan) and California (after Fernando Mendoza’s exit) must now rely on unproven talent or late-portal additions. The lack of continuity at the position could derail their seasons before they even begin.

The Elite Returners: Stability in a Chaotic Landscape

Cade Klubnik (Clemson) – The Standard-Bearer

Klubnik has emerged as the quintessential college quarterback—poised, productive, and battle-tested. His ability to dissect defenses and elevate his supporting cast makes Clemson a perennial playoff contender.

Riley Leonard (Duke) – The Dual-Threat Dynamo

Despite battling injuries, Leonard remains one of the most electrifying players in the country. His rushing ability adds a dimension few defenses can contain, and if healthy, he could lead Duke to an ACC title.

Mateer – The Stat-Sheet Stuffer

Few quarterbacks can dominate both through the air and on the ground like Mateer. His 300-yard passing games combined with explosive rushing performances make him a nightmare for defensive coordinators.

The Transfer Portal: Blessing or Curse?

Chandler Morris’ Odyssey

Morris is on his fourth school, a testament to both his talent and the transient nature of modern college football. Wherever he lands, he’ll be expected to start immediately—but will he finally find a long-term home?

The Rise of the One-Year Rental

More than ever, teams are turning to the portal for quick fixes. While this strategy can yield immediate results (see: Sam Leavitt at ASU), it often comes at the expense of long-term development. Programs must weigh short-term gains against the risk of instability.

Conference-by-Conference Breakdown

Big Ten: A Mix of Veterans and New Faces

The conference boasts both seasoned starters and intriguing newcomers. The battle for supremacy will hinge on which quarterbacks can elevate their teams in high-pressure matchups.

ACC: Stability at the Top, Questions Elsewhere

Klubnik and Leonard give the ACC two of the nation’s best, but the middle tier is riddled with uncertainty. Teams like Virginia Tech and Syracuse must find answers fast to avoid falling behind.

SEC: High Stakes, Higher Pressure

With Ewers likely gone and Lagway stepping in, the SEC’s quarterback hierarchy is in flux. The usual suspects (Alabama, LSU) will reload, but dark horses like Ole Miss could surprise if their signal-callers deliver.

Big 12: Gunslingers Galore

This conference remains a quarterback’s paradise, with Leavitt and Josh Hoover leading a deep group. Expect high-flying offenses and shootouts to define the season.

Conclusion: Adapt or Be Left Behind

The 2025 season will be defined by how well programs navigate the new realities of college football. Teams with established quarterbacks (Clemson, Duke) have a clear edge, but the transfer portal ensures no lead is safe. For those in transition, the margin for error is razor-thin. One injury, one transfer, one bad game could spell disaster.
In this era of constant movement, adaptability is the ultimate currency. The programs that master it will thrive—the rest will be left searching for answers.