ESPN's Max Olson highlights the top 10 unresolved quarterback competitions ahead of the 2026 college football season, with a focus on the implications for the SEC and College Football Playoff race.
Alabama Crimson Tide: A highly anticipated competition between Austin Mack and Keelon Russell, both talented players vying to replace Ty Simpson as Alabama's QB1. Russell's fan momentum and breakout performance in the Spring game, coupled with Mack's experience as Simpson's backup, create an intriguing dynamic.
Tennessee Volunteers: The Vols face QB uncertainty after Joey Aguilar's eligibility denial. They rely on freshmen George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon to win the job, with Brandon's physical readiness and long-term upside making him an intriguing prospect.
Clemson Tigers: Clemson's first serious quarterback battle in years follows the departure of Cade Klubnik. Christopher Vizzina, a former four-star signee, appears to be the front-runner, but freshman Tait Reynolds will keep pushing him.
Arizona State Sun Devils: The Sun Devils' competition involves Cutter Boley, a 6-foot-5 transfer with experience, and Jake Fette, a redshirted freshman. The team's recent changes, including the loss of Sam Leavitt and the arrival of Lane Kiffin, add complexity.
Florida Gators: The Gators' competition features Aaron Philo, a transfer with a relationship with new offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner, and Tramell Jones Jr., a redshirted freshman. The future of the Gators' offense is promising with a strong supporting cast.
Virginia Cavaliers: Beau Pribula and Eli Holstein, both experienced transfers, compete for the starting role. Pribula's success at Missouri and Holstein's strong start at Pitt make this a compelling battle.
Vanderbilt Commodores: Blaze Berlowitz, a veteran backup, faces off against Jared Curtis, a highly touted freshman. The program's first-ever 5-star QB signee, Curtis, presents a challenge for Berlowitz, who has experience working under Tim Beck.
Duke Blue Devils: The Blue Devils' competition involves Walker Eget, a transfer with extensive experience, and Dan Mahan, a promising redshirt freshman. The late transfer of Mensah adds complexity, but Eget's experience gives him an edge.
Iowa Hawkeyes: The Hawkeyes' decision involves Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski, both with limited playtime last season. Brown's efficiency and playmaking abilities make him a strong contender.
Arkansas Razorbacks: KJ Jackson and AJ Hill, both with potential, compete for the starting role. Jackson's dual-threat ability and Hill's experience at Memphis make this a close battle.
These competitions will shape the 2026 season, with implications for team success and the SEC and College Football Playoff race. The experts' analysis highlights the intriguing dynamics and challenges within these quarterback battles.
