The 2023 college football season has delivered thrilling performances, shocking upsets, and breakout stars. After two months of action, we’ve reevaluated all 68 Power 4 quarterbacks (ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC) to provide an updated ranking—highlighting the biggest risers, fallers, and surprises.
The Elite Tier: The Nation’s Best QBs
- Caleb Williams (USC) – The reigning Heisman winner remains #1 despite USC’s struggles, with 22 TD passes and unmatched playmaking ability.
- Michael Penix Jr. (Washington) – CFB’s passing leader (2,576 yards, 20 TDs) has been flawless, keeping Washington in playoff contention.
- Bo Nix (Oregon) – A model of efficiency (78% completion, 19 TDs), Nix has elevated Oregon’s offense under Dan Lanning.
Biggest Riser: J.J. McCarthy (Michigan) – Jumped from fringe top-15 to top-5 with a flawless 74% completion rate and 14 TDs (0 INTs).
Breakout Stars: QBs Exceeding Expectations
- Dillon Gabriel (Oklahoma) – Bounced back from a rough 2022, leading OU to an undefeated start (18 TDs, 2 INTs).
- Carson Beck (Georgia) – Stepped into Stetson Bennett’s shoes seamlessly (2,147 yards, 12 TDs), keeping UGA’s offense elite.
- Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss) – A dual-threat standout (1,800+ yards, 16 total TDs), Dart has Ole Miss in SEC West contention.
Biggest Faller: Devon Leary (Kentucky) – The touted transfer has struggled (8 TDs, 5 INTs), hurting Kentucky’s offensive consistency.
Disappointments: QBs Falling Short of Hype
- Sam Hartman (Notre Dame) – After a hot start, Hartman’s midseason slump (4 INTs in key losses) removed him from Heisman talks.
- Joe Milton (Tennessee) – Strong arm but inconsistent accuracy (8 TDs, 4 INTs) has Vols fans frustrated.
- Jeff Sims (Nebraska) – Lost his job after a turnover-filled start (6 INTs in 3 games).
Freshmen to Watch: The Next Generation
- Arch Manning (Texas) – Still behind Quinn Ewers but remains CFB’s most hyped backup.
- Nico Iamaleava (Tennessee) – Could push for playing time if Milton’s struggles continue.
Transfer Portal Impact: Winners & Losers
- Winner: Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) – The Buffaloes’ leader (2,420 yards, 21 TDs) has been the most impactful transfer QB.
- Loser: DJ Uiagalelei (Florida State) – Lost his starting job to Brock Glenn after failing to revive his career post-Clemson.
What’s Next in the QB Race?
The second half of the season will decide Heisman favorites, playoff contenders, and draft stocks. Can Caleb Williams carry USC? Will Penix or Nix overtake him? And which dark horse (like Kansas’ Jalon Daniels) will emerge?
Stay tuned for real-time updates and expert analysis as the QB battle heats up.
Final Take: With elite play, breakout stars, and surprising letdowns, the 2023 QB rankings are more competitive than ever—and the best is yet to come.
