With the 2017 college football season still months away the hype continues with projections, predictions and rankings dominating the headlines. The odds makers have released a bunch of opening lines for the 2017 season, so that’s gotten the conversation flowing.
After all, there isn’t actually much real news to report following the conclusion of spring practices. There is one question that always dominates the offseason conversation. Who is the best quarterback in college football? The answer is a little more complicated this year with the return of the reigning Heisman trophy winner Lamar Jackson and the emergence of Sam Darnold as a potential No. 1 overall pick. Here is a look at the top five quarterbacks in college football heading in to the 2017 season.
1. Lamar Jackson, Louisville
The consensus is that Jackson and Darnold are essentially 1-A and 1-B among college football quarterbacks heading in to the 2017 season. We will give the temporary nod to Jackson at No. 1 on our list after the ridiculous numbers he put up last season. Jackson put up almost 5,000 yards of total offense with 51 total touchdowns. The fact that he dominated on such a consistent basis is a testament to his incredible ability. What does Jackson have in store for an encore? He gained some valuable experience a year ago but it will still be extremely difficult for Jackson to match the numbers he registered last season. There hasn’t been a repeat Heisman trophy winner in more than four decades. However, there is no doubt Louisville’s star quarterback has the potential to rewrite the history books at the college level once again.
2. Sam Darnold, USC Trojans
Darnold finished last season on fire to end up with 31 touchdowns compared to nine interceptions and a 67.2 completion percentage. The Trojans quarterback followed up that regular season performance by setting records in the Rose Bowl. Expectations will be even higher for Darnold with another year of experience under his belt and more experience. USC’s schedule will also be slightly easier than it was a year ago. Darnold has the potential to put up some massive totals this season. There is a very good chance he will be considered the top prospect on the board by the time the 2018 NFL Draft rolls around.
3. Jalen Hurts, Alabama Crimson Tide
How different would the perception of Hurts be if he managed to lead Alabama to a national championship last season? That question will never be answered. However, Hurts and the Crimson Tide will get their shot at redemption with a team that is talented enough to go all the way once again in 2017. There will likely be a transition period under new offensive coordinator Brian Daboll but Hurts has the pure talent to succeed in any system. Hurts should excel as both a passer and a rusher once again next season while proving he is worthy of the No. 3 spot on this list.
4. Baker Mayfield, Oklahoma Sooners
The two-time Heisman trophy finalist will get one more shot to win the award in his senior season. Mayfield will have a new supporting cast, but the Sooners have the potential to be just as dangerous if they can establish a high level of chemistry early on in the season. Oklahoma is coming off back-to-back Big 12 titles and Mayfield is the biggest reason for it. Mayfield will deliver another outstanding performance and help the Sooners to contend for a national championship in 2017.
5. J.T. Barrett, Ohio State Buckeyes
Washington’s Jake Browning and Penn State’s Trace McSorley both deserve honorable mention in this spot. However, Barrett gets the nod over both of them based on talent, experience and accomplishment at the college level. The fifth-year senior owns a 26-4 record as a starter and has 100 total touchdowns in his career. The addition of offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson and quarterbacks coach Ryan Day could help put Barrett over the top this season. Barrett is also fully healthy and will have every opportunity to develop his game throughout the offseason. The Buckeyes have the potential to contend for a national championship in 2017. Barrett will be the biggest factor in determining whether or not they reach that ultimate goal.
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