Here are the Key Transfer QBs to Know This College Football Season
The landscape of college football is ever-evolving, especially when it comes to quarterback transfers. As we gear up for the 2024 season, numerous familiar faces are donning new uniforms in pursuit of playoff glory. Teams like Ohio State, Oregon, Notre Dame, and Florida State have all made significant upgrades to their quarterback rooms in hopes of bolstering their national championship aspirations. Below, we delve into the most notable transfer quarterbacks who will influence the upcoming season.
1. Hank Bachmeier (Wake Forest, from Louisiana Tech)
After spending a season at Louisiana Tech following four years at Boise State, Hank Bachmeier is poised to impact Wake Forest's offense significantly. His peak performance came in 2021 when he surpassed 3,000 passing yards and completed 63% of his throws with the Broncos. His experience and ability to dissect defenses make him a valuable asset for the Demon Deacons.
2. Aidan Chiles (Michigan State, from Oregon State)
Aidan Chiles relocates to East Lansing after a promising stint at Oregon State, where he appeared in nine games last season. With the Spartans moving forward under the guidance of new head coach Jonathan Smith, Chiles quickly emerged as the frontrunner for the starting position. His strong arm and athleticism will be critical as Michigan State aims to rebound in 2024.
3. DeQuan Finn (Baylor, from Toledo)
Finn had an impressive 2023 season, statistically dominating the MAC with 2,657 passing yards and 22 touchdowns, along with rushing for 563 yards and seven scores. His dual-threat capability will be crucial as Baylor seeks to revamp its offense after a challenging campaign. He embodies the playmaking versatility that head coach Dave Aranda covets as he reshapes the Bears' offensive identity.
4. Dillon Gabriel (Oregon, from Oklahoma)
Entering his sixth college season, Dillon Gabriel is a proven player who has the potential to lead Oregon to new heights. Over his tenure at Oklahoma, he amassed over 3,600 yards and 30 touchdowns in 2023 alone. As he transitions to the Ducks, comparisons to last year's standout Bo Nix are inevitable, raising the stakes for Gabriel to deliver a season that mirrors such high expectations.
5. Taylen Green (Arkansas, from Boise State)
Taylen Green's arrival at Arkansas adds a dynamic element to the Razorbacks' arsenal. Under Bobby Petrino's offense, his unique ability to rush—averaging 6.3 yards per carry throughout his career—will be indispensable. Although his passing efficiency needs refinement (career completion percentage of just over 59%), the potential for explosive plays is evident.
6. Will Howard (Ohio State, from Kansas State)
Projecting to step into a high-octane Ohio State offense, Will Howard is viewed as a leading contender for the starting job. Last season, he threw for 2,643 yards with a solid 24-to-10 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Under immense expectations from both the coaching staff and fans, Howard's ability to harness the Buckeyes' prolific attack will be pivotal.
7. KJ Jefferson (UCF, from Arkansas)
After a dip in performance at Arkansas, KJ Jefferson will look to revitalize his career with UCF. The former standout quarterback is known for his dual-threat ability, having completed 65% of his career passes while also amassing over 1,800 rushing yards. Under coach Gus Malzahn, expect Jefferson to thrive and possibly return to his explosive form as the Knights aim for a standout season.
8. Max Johnson (North Carolina, from Texas A&M)
Following the footsteps of his father, Brad Johnson, former NFL star, Max Johnson is stepping into a leadership position at North Carolina. After a respectable showing at Texas A&M, where he logged 1,452 yards and nine touchdowns in just eight games, Johnson is set to fill the large shoes left by departing quarterback Drake Maye.
9. Riley Leonard (Notre Dame, from Duke)
Riley Leonard's career at Duke was marred by injury, but his 2022 campaign showcased immense potential with nearly 3,000 yards and 20 touchdowns. With a robust offensive plan under coach Marcus Freeman at Notre Dame, Leonard's blend of passing finesse and rushing threat gives the Irish a strong chance to dominate their opponents this season.
10. Jayden Maiava (USC, from UNLV)
The Trojans have added depth and talent with the acquisition of Jayden Maiava, who threw for 3,085 yards and 17 touchdowns while completing over 63% of his passes at UNLV. With competition ramping up from Miller Moss, Maiava's development will be key as he strives to claim the starting spot in a program known for its offensive prowess.
11. Grayson McCall (NC State, from Coastal Carolina)
After an illustrious career at Coastal Carolina, Grayson McCall now joins NC State hoping to replicate that success. He established himself as a prolific quarterback from 2020 to 2022, demonstrating an impressive touchdown-to-interception ratio. With the right adjustments and support, McCall could be a transformative force in the Wolfpack’s quest for glory.
12. Jordan McCloud (Texas State, from James Madison)
A breakout star at James Madison, Jordan McCloud arrives at Texas State, ready to lead with confidence. He threw for 3,657 yards and 35 touchdowns last season and offers a strong dual-threat capability that will elevate the Bobcats' offensive strategy.
13. Kyle McCord (Syracuse, from Ohio State)
After earning the starting role with Ohio State, Kyle McCord sought new horizons at Syracuse. With experience under his belt and the potential for strong playmaking, McCord looks to solidify his place as a top-tier quarterback in the ACC.
14. Chandler Morris (North Texas, from TCU)
Chandler Morris' journey through Oklahoma and TCU finds him now at North Texas. Although his opportunities have been limited, he has the chance to prove himself as a capable starter, building on his past performances in a new environment.
15. MJ Morris (Maryland, from NC State)
MJ Morris' career has been characterized by potential. His decision to transfer to Maryland after a brief stint as the starter at NC State might allow him to flourish in a fresh setting. His career stats indicate the ability to become a reliable contributor if he regains confidence.
16. Maalik Murphy (Duke, from Texas)
Maalik Murphy transitions from Texas to Duke, looking to take the reins following Riley Leonard's departure. With a year of experience and learning under his belt, Murphy seeks to showcase his skills for the Blue Devils.
17. Malachi Nelson (Boise State, from USC)
Malachi Nelson, once a highly touted recruit, is now expected to take on a leadership role at Boise State after limited appearances at USC. With high expectations for a breakout season, he embodies the future of Broncos football.
18. Diego Pavia (Vanderbilt, from New Mexico State)
Pavia had a standout year at New Mexico State, contributing both as a passer and a rusher. Now at Vanderbilt, he brings a wealth of experience and the ability to make plays happen, aiming to guide the Commodores back to competitive prominence.
19. Spencer Petras (Utah State, from Iowa)
Spencer Petras arrives at Utah State with aspirations of turning a new leaf. After struggling at Iowa, the chance to lead a different program could provide him with the reset he needs to reignite his college career.
20. Will Rogers (Washington, from Mississippi State)
A seasoned quarterback with impressive stats to back him up, Will Rogers is transferring to Washington, bringing with him a wealth of experience and setting his sights on further success under the new coaching leadership.
21. Kurtis Rourke (Indiana, from Ohio)
Coming off a significant injury, Rourke presents a high-risk, high-reward situation for Indiana. His previous achievements signal that he can be a game-changer if he returns to form.
22. Ken Seals (TCU, from Vanderbilt)
With experience in the SEC, Ken Seals is set to reinvigorate TCU’s quarterback situation. His past performances and playmaking ability will be pivotal for the Horned Frogs in their recovery.
23. Blake Shapen (Mississippi State, from Baylor)
Blake Shapen joins Mississippi State with a solid career behind him at Baylor. Tasked with leading a new team, Shapen hopes to build upon his existing accomplishments.
24. Tyler Shough (Louisville, from Texas Tech)
Shough, now on his third collegiate destination, aims to revitalize his career at Louisville after dealing with injuries that stifled his growth. His experience could be the key to a successful revival.
25. DJ Uiagalelei (Florida State, from Oregon State)
Uiagalelei's journey continues as he takes command of Florida State’s offense following a solid year at Oregon State. Tasked with leading the Seminoles, he has the ability to make significant strides in his career trajectory.
26. Tyler Van Dyke (Wisconsin, from Miami)
After a promising start at Miami, Tyler Van Dyke looks to reset his trajectory at Wisconsin. If he can return to his previous form, he could revive the Badgers' offense significantly.
27. Brock Vandagriff (Kentucky, from Georgia)
Moving to Kentucky signals opportunity for Brock Vandagriff as he looks to navigate a new SEC landscape and solidify his reputation as a capable starter after limited action at Georgia.
28. Cam Ward (Miami, from Washington State)
Ward’s arrival at Miami comes with high expectations after two productive years at Washington State. As the Hurricanes seek to reclaim national prominence, Ward’s prowess will be at the forefront of their finished product.
Conclusion
The influx of talent at the quarterback position through transfers is set to shake up the college football scene this season. With each player bringing unique skills, experience, and potential, the 2024 season promises to be electrifying. As teams settle into new dynamics, keep an eye on how these transfers adapt and emerge as key players in their respective systems. The stage is set for an unforgettable college football season ahead.