Let’s be real; we all love a good quarterback showdown. College football has given us some legendary QBs over the decades, and it’s high time we celebrate the top-tier talent that has graced the NCAA. Here’s a list of ten quarterbacks who, in my opinion, can genuinely be hailed as the best in college history.
Photo by Gene Gallin, free to use under the Unsplash license
Tim Tebow (Florida, 2006-2009)
Remember when Tebow became the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy? With two national championships and a flair for the dramatic, his impact on the Gators was undeniable. Tebow growing up was homeschooled, but was still allowed to play football for a local high school, helping pave the way for other homeschoolers to compete in team sports. He’s also a strong advocate for the pro-life movement.
Cam Newton (Auburn, 2010)
Newton’s lone season at Auburn was nothing short of spectacular. He led the Tigers to a national title and scooped up the Heisman along the way. Before his standout season at Auburn, Newton actually began his college career at Florida before transferring to a junior college and eventually to Auburn.
Peyton Manning (Tennessee, 1994-1997)
Arguably one of the best to never win the Heisman, Manning’s skill set and IQ made him an icon at Tennessee. Peyton hails from the Manning dynasty. His father, Archie Manning, was also an iconic quarterback, but for Ole Miss.
Doug Flutie (Boston College, 1981-1984)
The ‘Hail Flutie’ touchdown pass is legendary, but so was his entire career. Flutie won the Heisman and set records in passing yards. Flutie also had a talent for drumming. He’s played the drums in various events with his Flutie Brothers Band.
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Vince Young (Texas, 2003-2005)
That 2006 Rose Bowl game-winning touchdown against USC? Legendary. Young’s athletic prowess was a sight to behold. After retiring from football, Young returned to the University of Texas to work in the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement.
Tommy Frazier (Nebraska, 1992-1995)
Guiding Nebraska to back-to-back national titles in the ’90s, Frazier’s leadership was unmatched. After retiring from football, Young returned to the University of Texas to work in the Division of Diversity and Community Engagement. Frazier was undefeated as a starter in his final two seasons at Nebraska, a streak of 25 consecutive games.
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Sammy Baugh (TCU, 1934-1936)
Going vintage here! Baugh set the standard for future QBs and is often credited for revolutionizing the forward pass. Baugh also played professional baseball for a stint, spending a summer in the minor leagues with the St. Louis Cardinals’ farm system.
Deshaun Watson (Clemson, 2014-2016)
Watson led the Tigers to a national championship in 2016, showing resilience and raw talent. Watson promised his mom he’d get a college degree. He fulfilled that promise, graduating in three years while playing football.
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Matt Leinart (USC, 2003-2005)
With a Heisman and two national titles under his belt, Leinart’s time at USC was the stuff of legends. Leinart was not only a football player; he also briefly appeared in TV shows, making cameo appearances in shows like “Always Sunny in Philadelphia.”
Danny Wuerffel (Florida, 1993-1996)
Wuerffel’s arm was golden, leading Florida to a national title and snagging a Heisman for himself. Wuerffel has dedicated much of his post-football life to charitable work, particularly in New Orleans through the Desire Street Ministries.
From jaw-dropping throws to nail-biting finishes, these quarterbacks brought their A-game every single time. Agree with the list? Anyone you think got snubbed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
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