
In the realm of collegiate football, the quarterback position holds paramount significance, orchestrating the offense’s tactical maneuvers. For freshmen signal-callers, navigating the complexities of the gridiron can be a daunting task. Yet, a select group of these young prodigies has emerged, captivating the attention of fans and pundits alike with their precocious talent and potential. From the annals of high school stardom to the hallowed halls of Division I football, these extraordinary freshmen quarterbacks are poised to make an indelible mark on the upcoming season.
Among the most highly touted freshman quarterbacks is Cade Klubnik, the prized recruit who has taken the reins of the storied Clemson Tigers. Klubnik, a 5-star recruit and the nation’s top-ranked quarterback in the 2022 class, boasts a dazzling skill set that includes an exceptional arm, pinpoint accuracy, and an uncanny ability to extend plays with his mobility. His presence has instilled a palpable sense of optimism in Clemson’s fan base, eager to witness the next chapter in the program’s illustrious history under his stewardship.
Another freshman quarterback to watch is Arch Manning, the latest in a legendary football dynasty. Manning, a 5-star recruit and the grandson of Archie Manning and nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, has chosen to continue his family’s gridiron legacy at the University of Texas. Manning possesses a remarkable football IQ, a quick release, and an innate leadership ability. His arrival in Austin has sparked a renewed sense of excitement within the Longhorn faithful, who are hopeful that he can lead them back to national prominence. Manning’s presence in the SEC will undoubtedly add a captivating storyline to the conference’s already intense rivalry landscape.
Five Potential Heisman Contenders from the Freshman Class
Caleb Williams, USC
Williams, who was the nation’s top recruit in 2021, is one of the most electric and dynamic quarterbacks in the country. He has a rocket arm, incredible mobility, and the ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs. Williams started his collegiate career at Oklahoma before transferring to USC, and he is expected to be the Trojans’ starting quarterback in 2023.
Williams had a phenomenal freshman season at Oklahoma in 2021, completing 64.5% of his passes for 1,912 yards and 21 touchdowns against four interceptions. He also rushed for 442 yards and six touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat ability. Williams’ strong play led Oklahoma to a 9-4 record and a berth in the Alamo Bowl.
The Trojans will be hoping that Williams can continue his stellar play, and with a talented supporting cast around him including rising stars like wide receiver Mario Williams and running back Travis Dye, he has the potential to be one of the most productive and exciting quarterbacks in the country. Williams is an early Heisman Trophy candidate and could be one of the most talked-about players in college football in 2023.
Season |
Comp% |
Yards |
TDs |
INTs |
Rushing Yards |
Rushing TDs |
2021 (Oklahoma) |
64.5 |
1,912 |
21 |
4 |
442 |
6 |
3. The Prodigy from the Pacific Northwest: Shedeur Sanders
Hailing from the football-rich state of Texas, Shedeur Sanders is a true prodigy. As the son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, football runs through his veins. Sanders enrolled at the University of Colorado at Boulder in 2022, inheriting the starting quarterback role immediately.
Despite his freshman status, Sanders displayed remarkable poise and maturity on the field. He led the Buffaloes to an unexpected 5-7 record, their first winning season since 2016. His exceptional arm strength, pinpoint accuracy, and mobility made him a formidable threat to opposing defenses.
In 2023, Sanders is poised for an even more impressive season. With a year of experience under his belt and a talented supporting cast around him, he has the potential to become one of the top quarterbacks in the Pac-12 Conference. His leadership, athleticism, and competitive spirit make him a player to watch as he continues to develop and guide the Colorado Buffaloes to success.
Passing Stats |
2022 Season |
Passing Yards |
2,903 |
Touchdowns |
16 |
Interceptions |
8 |
Completion Percentage |
61.5% |
Freshmen Quarterbacks Dominating the Field
Elite Performers
The 2022 college football season has witnessed an impressive display of talent from freshman quarterbacks. These young signal-callers have burst onto the scene, showcasing remarkable poise, athleticism, and leadership skills.
Top 5 Standouts
Among the elite freshman quarterbacks this season, five standout performers have emerged:
Rank |
Player |
Team |
Passing Yards |
Touchdowns |
Completion % |
1 |
Cade Klubnik |
Clemson |
3,213 |
28 |
66.2% |
2 |
Dylan Raiola |
Georgia |
2,950 |
31 |
64.5% |
3 |
Quinn Ewers |
Texas |
2,730 |
27 |
63.4% |
4 |
Dante Moore |
Oregon |
2,685 |
25 |
62.9% |
5 |
Nick Singleton |
Penn State |
2,450 |
23 |
61.8% |
Nick Singleton, a versatile quarterback from Penn State, has impressed with his combination of passing efficiency and rushing ability. He has thrown for over 2,450 yards and 23 touchdowns, while also rushing for 1,000 yards and an additional 10 touchdowns. Singleton’s dynamic playstyle has made him a key contributor to Penn State’s success this season, earning him recognition as one of the top freshmen quarterbacks in the country.
Game-Changers: Freshmen Quarterbacks Transforming College Football
8. Cade Klubnik (Clemson Tigers)
Cade Klubnik, the nation’s top-ranked quarterback in the 2022 recruiting class, is poised to take over the starting job at Clemson following DJ Uiagalelei’s departure to Oregon. At Austin Westlake High School in Texas, Klubnik led his team to three consecutive state championships.
Klubnik’s exceptional arm strength, accuracy, and mobility make him a dangerous dual-threat quarterback. He possesses a quick release and can fit the ball into tight windows with ease. In high school, he threw for over 5,000 yards and 70 touchdowns while rushing for nearly 1,000 yards.
2023 Outlook
Klubnik is expected to compete for the starting quarterback job with veteran Hunter Johnson. If he wins the job, he will have the luxury of behind one of the nation’s best offensive lines. Clemson’s high-powered offense will give Klubnik plenty of opportunities to showcase his talent and help the Tigers compete for an ACC championship.
Name |
Year |
Team |
Hometown |
Cade Klubnik |
2023 |
Clemson Tigers |
Austin, TX |
Rising Stars: Freshmen Quarterbacks Poised for Success
1. Arch Manning
The son of Cooper Manning and nephew of Peyton Manning, Arch Manning is the most highly touted quarterback recruit since Trevor Lawrence. He has all the physical tools necessary to be a successful quarterback at the collegiate level, and he showed off his skills in high school by throwing for 5,588 yards and 78 touchdowns in his junior season. Manning is expected to start for the Texas Longhorns in 2023, and he has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country.
2. Cade Klubnik
Cade Klubnik is another highly touted quarterback recruit who is expected to make an immediate impact at the collegiate level. He is a five-star recruit who chose to play for the Clemson Tigers over offers from many other top programs. Klubnik has a strong arm and is very accurate with his throws. He is also a good runner and can make plays with his legs when necessary. Klubnik is expected to start for the Tigers in 2023, and he has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the country.
…
10. Julian Sayin
A 6’3″, 210-pound pro-style QB heralding from Carlsbad, Calif., Sayin was ranked as the 22nd-best quarterback and 121st-best player overall in the 2023 class. Yet, he was the first QB to receive an offer from Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss, and he quickly rose to become a top target for the Rebels. Sayin is known for his strong arm and mobility, making him an ideal fit for Kiffin’s high-octane offense.
Sayin started seven games as a true freshman, completing 148 of 250 passes for 1,822 yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions. His efficiency numbers (139.79 passer rating, 7.3 yards per attempt) were all top-ten nationally among freshmen. He also rushed for 251 yards and four touchdowns.
With Jaxon Dart transferring to Colorado, Sayin is expected to take over as the full-time starter in 2023. He has the potential to be a star in the SEC and lead the Rebels to success.
Name |
Position |
School |
Arch Manning |
QB |
Texas |
Cade Klubnik |
QB |
Clemson |
Julian Sayin |
QB |
Ole Miss |
Best Freshman QBs in College Football 25
The 2022 college football season is upon us, and there are a number of talented freshman quarterbacks who are expected to make an immediate impact. Here is a look at the top 25 freshman quarterbacks in college football:
1. Cade Klubnik, Clemson
2. Arch Manning, Texas
3. Dante Moore, UCLA
4. Shedeur Sanders, Jackson State
5. Jaden Rashada, Miami (FL)
6. Drew Allar, Penn State
7. Tyler Booker, Alabama
8. Evan Stewart, Texas A&M
9. Justyn Martin, Cal
10. Gunnar Watson, Georgia
11. Donovan Green, Texas A&M
12. Devin Brown, Ohio State
13. Jaydn Ott, Cal
14. Nick Singleton, Penn State
15. Tegra Tshabola, Ohio State
16. Devin Brown, Ohio State
17. Trevor Etienne, Florida
18. CJ Hicks, Ohio State
19. Sonny Styles, Ohio State
20. Cole Hutson, Texas
21. Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina
22. Jaydn Ott, Cal
23. Kyion Grayes, Ohio State
24. Bryson Shaw, Tennessee
25. Tayvonn Kyle, Mississippi State
People Also Ask About Best Freshman QBs in College Football 25
Who is the best freshman quarterback in college football?
Cade Klubnik, who is the current starting quarterback for Clemson, is widely considered to be the best freshman quarterback in college football.
How many freshman quarterbacks have started a game in college football history?
There have been 22 freshman quarterbacks who have started a game in college football history.
Who was the last freshman quarterback to win a national championship?
The last freshman quarterback to win a national championship was Jamelle Holieway, who led Oklahoma to the 1985 title.