The most underrated quarterback in each college football conference

The 2025 college football season highlighted unexpected quarterback stars, notably Cal transfer Fernando Mendoza, who claimed the Heisman Trophy at Indiana. As the 2026 season approaches, several quarterbacks across conferences are poised to make significant impacts, especially with the expanded College Football Playoff offering increased exposure.

In the American Athletic Conference, Owen McCown of UTSA aims to build on his 2,995-yard, 30-touchdown season, potentially steering the Roadrunners back into playoff discussions. Virginia's Beau Pribula, an SEC transfer from Missouri, seeks to capitalize on ACC defenses after amassing 2,238 yards and 17 touchdowns in his first full starter season.

TCU's Jaden Craig, transitioning from a successful FCS career at Harvard, is set to make waves in the Big 12, while Minnesota's Drake Lindsey looks to elevate the Gophers in the Big Ten after an impressive interception-free streak and a Rate Bowl victory.

Logan Fife of New Mexico