In the world of college football, the race for quarterback supremacy in the College Football Playoff (CFP) has sparked intense debate and widespread fascination. CBS Sports has recently published their rankings of the top eight quarterbacks remaining in the CFP, placing a spotlight on these key players and their remarkable performances. But here's where it gets controversial: understanding why certain quarterbacks are ranked higher than others can challenge our perceptions and invite diverse opinions. Let’s explore CBS’s list in detail, starting from the top with a name everyone is talking about!
1. Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Ranking at the very top is Fernando Mendoza from Indiana, who has captured national attention by winning the Heisman Trophy this season. Under his leadership, Indiana achieved an impressive 13-0 record and secured the Big Ten championship. Mendoza transferred from California and became a powerhouse, leading all of the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) in touchdown passes this year.
This season, Mendoza accumulated 2,980 passing yards, threw 33 touchdowns with just six interceptions, and maintained an outstanding 71.5% completion rate. His performance has been instrumental in Indiana’s success, and they are set to face Alabama in the Rose Bowl during the CFP quarterfinals.
2. Trinidad Chambliss, Ole Miss
The story of Trinidad Chambliss highlights perseverance and breakthrough success. Moving from Division II to Division I, Chambliss’s journey is an inspirational example for aspiring athletes. Originally serving as a backup to Austin Simmons at Ole Miss, an injury thrust Chambliss into the spotlight, and he has seized the opportunity with both hands.
This season, Chambliss threw for 3,293 yards, 19 touchdowns, three interceptions, and achieved a 66.6% completion rate. He also showcased his dual-threat ability by rushing for 506 yards and scoring eight rushing touchdowns. Ole Miss edged out Tulane in the first CFP round and now faces Georgia in the quarterfinals.
3. Dante Moore, Oregon
Dante Moore helped Oregon vault back into the CFP picture this year, including a dominant victory over James Madison in the first round. His journey wasn’t smooth — after a rough freshman year at UCLA and a limited role at Oregon last year — but Moore has emerged as a top NFL Draft prospect, potentially the first quarterback selected next year.
In 13 games, Moore threw for 3,046 yards, 28 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, with a stellar 72.4% completion rate. Oregon is preparing to challenge Texas Tech in their upcoming CFP quarterfinal clash.
4. Julian Sayin, Ohio State
Julian Sayin’s impressive debut season as a starting quarterback saw him making waves in the Heisman conversations, despite falling short after Ohio State’s loss to Mendoza and Indiana in the Big Ten title game. Nonetheless, he demonstrated exceptional skill and poise in his first year.
Ohio State, holding the No. 2 seed, faces Miami in the CFP quarterfinals, aiming to secure three consecutive wins for a repeat appearance. Sayin’s stats this season include 3,323 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, six interceptions, and the league-leading 78.4% completion percentage over 13 games.
5. Ty Simpson, Alabama
Throughout this season, Ty Simpson has experienced a rollercoaster of performances. When on form, he looks remarkably like an NFL-caliber quarterback. His highlight was guiding Alabama to a come-from-behind victory over Oklahoma in the first CFP round.
Simpson has accumulated 3,500 yards passing, with 28 touchdowns, five interceptions, and a 64.1% completion rate. He’s set to face Indiana in the Rose Bowl on New Year’s, as Alabama aims for a deep playoff run.
6. Gunner Stockton, Georgia
Gunner Stockton, known for his dual-threat capabilities, was in the Heisman conversation earlier this season due to his dynamic playmaking. Although he didn’t make it to New York, his effectiveness for Georgia has been undeniable.
His stats include 2,691 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, five interceptions, and an impressive 70.7% completion rate. Additionally, his rushing ability added 442 yards and eight rushing touchdowns, showcasing his versatility.
7. Behren Morton, Texas Tech
Behren Morton has been a vital part of Texas Tech’s offensive success this year. When healthy, Morton has kept the Red Raiders competitive, throwing for 2,643 yards, 22 touchdowns, and four interceptions over 11 games, with a solid 67% completion rate.
Looking ahead, Morton and Texas Tech will face Oregon in the CFP quarterfinals, aiming to continue their impressive playoff journey.
8. Carson Beck, Miami
Surprisingly occupying the eighth spot is Carson Beck from Miami. Once considered a potential top NFL pick, Beck’s performances this season have been effective, if not headline-grabbing. Despite a modest win over Texas A&M, Miami counts on Beck’s leadership against Ohio State.
This year, Beck posted 2,643 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, four interceptions, and a 67% completion percentage. His role will be crucial as Miami looks to advance further in the CFP.
Final Thoughts:
While the rankings may spark debate—particularly around the order of these quarterbacks—they highlight some of the most talented and dynamic players competing on the biggest stage. It’s worth pondering whether rankings like these truly capture the nuances of each quarterback’s journey and potential. Do you agree with CBS’s list? Or do you believe certain players are underrated or overrated? Drop your thoughts and join the conversation—after all, in college football, opinions are as fierce as the rivalry itself!
