After NFL draft decisions and transfer portal entries, the quarterback picture around college football is beginning to take shape for the 2024 season.
Some expected College Football Playoff contenders return proven quarterbacks, such as two who lost in the semifinals (Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, Texas’ Quinn Ewers). Other notable teams had expected departures, either to the NFL or the portal, but have clear-cut successors who are ready to take on larger roles. There are also teams with somewhat fluid quarterback situations that could clear up through offseason competition or the spring transfer window (April 15-30).
So, let’s examine the highest-profile replacement quarterbacks around college football. Some names will be instantly recognizable, as they already boast starting experience for other programs or received accolades as recruits. Others may need more of an introduction. The list includes some quarterbacks who have waited multiple seasons for their opportunities, including LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier and USC’s Miller Moss. In a sign of the times, Dillon Gabriel appears both as a key departure (Oklahoma) and a key replacement (Oregon).
Here’s a look at 10 teams that lost notable quarterbacks, and who is primed to replace those quarterbacks this fall. Draft projections are based on Jordan Reid’s latest ESPN mock draft.
Who departs: Caleb Williams
What USC is losing: 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, Maxwell Award and AP Player of the Year recipient; USC single-season record holder for passing yards (4,919) and touchdown passes (42); 10,082 passing yards, 93 touchdowns and 14 interceptions in three-year career at USC and Oklahoma; projected No. 1 pick in 2024 NFL draft; 27 career rushing touchdowns
The replacements: Miller Moss, USC redshirt junior; Jayden Maiava, sophomore, UNLV transfer
What to expect: USC’s post-Williams outlook seemed to shift in the Holiday Bowl as Moss, who had played sparingly behind Williams the past two seasons, set a bowl record with six touchdown passes in a win over Louisville. Moss completed 23 of 33 attempts for 372 yards in his first career start, spreading the ball to nine different receivers and twice connecting for touchdowns to both Tahj Washington and Ja’Kobi Lane. “Shoot, he may have scared off anybody that would want to come here anyway,” coach Lincoln…
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