Top 10 College QBs Set to Dominate the 2026 Season

The 2026 college football season is shaping up to be a quarterback showcase, with nine programs boasting standout talents who have already made waves on the field. In this lineup, a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars promise to keep fans on their toes. Arch Manning from Texas tops the list. After a tough offseason surgery, he’s back in form, racking up over 3, 000 passing yards and a solid touchdown count last year. His dual-threat ability—evident in his 400‑yard rushing effort during the Citrus Bowl—makes him a dual threat that defenses must respect. Ohio State’s Julian Sayin leads the Big Ten with a flawless 12‑0 record in his debut season. His precision and playmaking earned him a Heisman nod, setting the bar high for his sophomore campaign. Analysts note that while his accuracy is a strength, his success often rides on the receivers’ performances. Miami’s Darian Mensah, fresh from a standout year at Duke, brings elite pocket awareness and athleticism to the Hurricanes. His numbers—nearly 4, 000 passing yards and 34 touchdowns—signal that he could contend for national honors once more. Dante Moore of Oregon, who had NFL draft prospects in the off‑season, chose to stay. His leadership and ability to read defenses were key as Oregon advanced to the College Football Playoff, upsetting top teams before a semifinal loss.Notre Dame’s CJ Carr proved that first‑year starters can shine. With over 2, 700 passing yards and a low interception count, he is poised to elevate the Irish’s offense further under new coaching guidance. Indiana’s Josh Hoover steps into a legacy quarterback role, carrying forward the program’s recent success. His experience at TCU and solid career stats suggest he can maintain the high standards set by his predecessor. USC’s Jayden Maiava, now in his second full season, has shown significant growth. His journey from a newcomer to a key playmaker demonstrates his potential to lead the Trojans toward historic playoff appearances. Texas Tech’s Brendan Sorsby, a high‑profile transfer from Cincinnati, brings both talent and a hefty price tag. His past performances—over 5, 600 passing yards in two seasons—indicate he could be a pivotal piece for the Red Raiders’ ambitions. Finally, LSU’s Sam Leavitt, transitioning from Arizona State, offers mobility and creativity. His ability to stretch defenses aligns well with the dynamic offensive schemes favored by Coach Lane Kiffin. With such a lineup, 2026 promises thrilling matchups and memorable moments as these quarterbacks vie for conference titles and national glory.