Top college quarterbacks 2024

Top College Quarterbacks to Watch in 2024: The Future of Football in the USA

The 2024 college football season is set to be an electrifying one, and at the heart of it will be the dynamic quarterbacks leading the charge for their respective teams. Quarterbacks are the face of any football team, and this year, the USA is home to a crop of elite signal-callers who possess both raw talent and the potential to dominate the college football landscape. From seasoned veterans aiming for greatness to rising stars ready to make a name for themselves, the 2024 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.

In this article, we will explore the top college quarterbacks in 2024, diving into their strengths, career trajectories, and the factors that make them standout players. Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated college football enthusiast, these quarterbacks are ones you’ll want to watch closely this season.

1. Caleb Williams (USC Trojans)

• Class: Junior
• Height: 6’1″
• Weight: 215 lbs
• 2023 Stats: 4,537 passing yards, 42 TDs, 5 INTs, 66.1% completion rate
• Why He’s Special:
  Caleb Williams is not just the defending Heisman Trophy winner but also one of the most talented quarterbacks to ever step onto a college football field. After transferring to USC from Oklahoma, Williams took the Pac-12 by storm, showing off his unique ability to read defenses, make pinpoint throws, and extend plays with his legs. Known for his poise in the pocket and incredible arm strength, he’s a natural leader with a superb understanding of the game.

In 2024, Williams will be aiming to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest college quarterbacks of all time. His incredible football IQ, ability to throw deep and on the run, and leadership under pressure make him a top contender for both the Heisman and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

2. Drake Maye (North Carolina Tar Heels)

• Class: Junior
• Height: 6’4″
• Weight: 225 lbs
• 2023 Stats: 4,168 passing yards, 38 TDs, 7 INTs, 66.0% completion rate
• Why He’s Special:
  Drake Maye enters 2024 as one of the most promising quarterbacks in college football. With his combination of size, mobility, and arm strength, Maye has a well-rounded skill set that makes him a dangerous weapon for the Tar Heels. His ability to make throws from any platform, combined with his natural athleticism and football IQ, makes him one of the most exciting players to watch this season.

After a stellar sophomore year in 2023, where he led UNC to a strong season, Maye has drawn comparisons to some of the NFL’s top quarterbacks. He’s poised to further improve his draft stock in 2024 and could be a top pick in the NFL Draft if he continues to develop his game.

3. Michael Penix Jr. (Washington Huskies)

• Class: Senior
• Height: 6’3″
• Weight: 214 lbs
• 2023 Stats: 4,641 passing yards, 31 TDs, 8 INTs, 66.1% completion rate
• Why He’s Special:
  After a couple of injury-plagued seasons at Indiana, Michael Penix Jr. found a home at the University of Washington, where he completely transformed his game. Penix showed off his elite passing abilities in 2023, leading the Huskies to one of the most potent offenses in college football. His deep-ball accuracy and his ability to read the defense quickly set him apart from many other quarterbacks in the nation.

In 2024, Penix will be looking to take Washington to the next level, possibly competing for a college football playoff spot. His ability to lead his team under pressure and his chemistry with wide receivers like Roma Dunze make him a major threat in the Pac-12.

4. Quinn Ewers (Texas Longhorns)

• Class: Sophomore
• Height: 6’2″
• Weight: 213 lbs
• 2023 Stats: 3,347 passing yards, 26 TDs, 7 INTs, 65.2% completion rate
• Why He’s Special:
  Quinn Ewers entered college football with massive expectations after transferring to Texas from Ohio State, and he’s lived up to the hype. Known for his strong arm, deep accuracy, and playmaking ability, Ewers is one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in college football. His decision-making and maturity in the pocket improved drastically in 2023, and he helped Texas reach new heights in the Big 12.

In 2024, with Texas moving to the SEC, Ewers will be a key player in guiding the Longhorns through a tougher conference. If he continues to progress and stay healthy, he could make a serious push for the Heisman Trophy and lead Texas back to national prominence.

5. J.J. McCarthy (Michigan Wolverines)

• Class: Junior
• Height: 6’3″
• Weight: 205 lbs
• 2023 Stats: 3,486 passing yards, 28 TDs, 5 INTs, 69.0% completion rate
• Why He’s Special:
  J.J. McCarthy is the definition of a dual-threat quarterback with a calm and poised demeanor in the pocket. He had a breakout season in 2023, leading Michigan to the College Football Playoff while displaying excellent accuracy and poise. McCarthy’s ability to throw the ball with velocity on short and deep routes, along with his ability to escape pressure and extend plays, makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Heading into 2024, McCarthy will be one of the key quarterbacks to watch as Michigan aims for a third consecutive Big Ten Championship. With a balanced offensive attack and a strong defense, McCarthy has the potential to lead Michigan to the national title game.

6. Bo Nix (Oregon Ducks)

• Class: Senior
• Height: 6’2″
• Weight: 213 lbs
• 2023 Stats: 3,776 passing yards, 29 TDs, 7 INTs, 72.2% completion rate
• Why He’s Special:
  Bo Nix’s journey has been one of transformation. After transferring from Auburn to Oregon, Nix turned heads with his improved mechanics, leadership, and playmaking ability. In 2023, Nix had one of the most efficient seasons among quarterbacks in college football, showcasing elite accuracy, mobility, and football IQ.

Nix’s growth at Oregon has positioned him as one of the top senior quarterbacks in 2024. He’ll be a key player in the Pac-12, looking to lead the Ducks to another New Year’s Six bowl and beyond. With his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs, Nix has the tools to win big in 2024.

7. Ty Simpson (Alabama Crimson Tide)

• Class: Sophomore
• Height: 6’2″
• Weight: 210 lbs
• Why He’s Special:
  Ty Simpson’s rise at Alabama has been one to watch. Known for his exceptional poise and natural arm strength, Simpson is the heir apparent to the quarterback position at Alabama after Bryce Young’s departure. While 2024 will be Simpson’s first full season as a starter, his potential is evident in his ability to run Alabama’s pro-style offense and make precision throws under pressure.

With Nick Saban’s program constantly competing for national titles, Simpson has a huge opportunity to lead the Crimson Tide back to the top of the SEC and make a statement as one of the nation’s top quarterbacks.