The college football landscape is on the edge of a real shakeup as the transfer portal opens. Quarterback lineups across top programs are about to get a major remix.
Teams like Miami, LSU, and Florida are all in the hunt for new quarterbacks. Honestly, this coming season could end up being one of the most unpredictable in a long time.
The portal’s already made its mark—over half the College Football Playoff teams this year had transfer quarterbacks. As things heat up, let’s take a look at some quarterback moves that might just define what happens next.
The Transfer Portal’s Influence on Top Programs
The opening of the college football transfer portal feels a bit like musical chairs, but with a lot more pressure. Top programs are scrambling for the best quarterbacks available.
Miami, LSU, and Florida are expected to be right in the thick of it, all trying to strengthen their quarterback groups with some big-name transfers.
Miami’s Strategic Moves
Miami’s had some luck lately with transfer quarterbacks like Cam Ward and Carson Beck. That success has made Coral Gables a pretty appealing spot for transfers this year.
One name floating around is former Arizona State starter Sam Leavitt. He made a splash in 2024, though injuries slowed him down last season, but if he’s healthy, he might be a multi-year answer for Miami.
LSU’s Quarterback Conundrum
LSU is another team to keep an eye on, especially with Lane Kiffin calling the shots. They’re waiting to hear if Ole Miss starter Trinidad Chambliss will get a sixth year of eligibility.
If Chambliss gets the green light, he’d be a natural fit. There’s also DJ Lagway—he’s got loads of talent, even if things didn’t quite click for him at Florida, and he could be in play if he decides to move.
Florida’s Rebuilding Efforts
Florida’s quarterback room is looking pretty thin, especially if DJ Lagway leaves and with Jon Sumrall taking over as coach. There’s already talk about Georgia Tech transfer Aaron Philo as a possible fit.
Philo showed flashes in his eight games over the last two years. He might just give the Gators the boost they need.
Other Notable Transfer Destinations
It’s not just the big names making moves this year. Plenty of other programs are eyeing the portal, hoping to land quarterbacks who can change their fortunes.
Oregon’s Potential Moves
Oregon’s plans really depend on what Dante Moore decides about the NFL draft. If he heads out, expect the Ducks to jump into the transfer market for a big name.
This decision could set off a chain reaction, shifting other teams’ plans as well.
Texas Tech’s Search
Texas Tech is waiting on Cincinnati transfer Brendan Sorsby. He’s a Texas native, has starting experience, and can move—he fits their offense pretty well.
But if Sorsby gets a strong NFL draft grade, he might just skip college ball altogether.
Indiana’s New Era
Indiana needs a new starter with Fernando Mendoza gone. TCU transfer Josh Hoover is a real possibility.
Hoover’s played in Sonny Dykes’ system and could help Indiana keep trending upward, maybe even pushing them closer to Power Four status. That’s a big if, but you never know.
Potential Game-Changers
Some quarterbacks in this year’s portal could totally flip the script for their new teams. They bring experience, skill, and that instant impact factor coaches love.
Auburn’s Rebuilding Project
Auburn, with new coach Alex Golesh, seems likely to look nearby for quarterback help. Byrum Brown, who had a standout year at South Florida, is a name to watch.
Brown’s a true dual-threat and could really speed up Auburn’s rebuild if he lands there.
Clemson’s Options
Clemson’s got a big decision ahead—this could be a make-or-break year. They’ve got Christopher Vizzina, a junior, and redshirt freshman Chris Denson, but don’t be surprised if they look to the portal too.
Potential targets? Sorsby, Lagway, maybe even Colton Joseph from Old Dominion, who brings some real athleticism to the table.
Tennessee’s Short-Term Solution
Tennessee is in the market for a one-year bridge before turning things over to redshirt freshman George MacIntyre or newcomer Faizon Brandon. James Madison transfer Alonza Barnett III, a senior with some wheels, could add an interesting twist to Josh Heupel’s offense.
Conclusion
The college football transfer portal is about to shake up quarterback lineups everywhere. Top programs like Miami, LSU, and Florida are all hunting for fresh talent at QB.
The landscape feels like it’s on the edge of something big. As the portal action ramps up, teams are scrambling to land quarterbacks who can actually deliver next season.
Curious about who’s moving where or how this all might play out? Take a look at the full article on USA Today for a deeper dive.
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