By Dorrington Myers
I last analyzed the SEC QBs, now it’s time to show the ACC QBs some love. This is one of the most well-rounded group of QBs heading into the 2025 season.
CJ Bailey, NC State
• Synopsis: It’s no surprise that CJ Bailey is on this list. This young man is a true playmaker. Despite being an underclassman, he plays with the poise of a seasoned veteran. Bailey is elusive as a runner, navigates the pocket exceptionally well, demonstrates patience with the ball, and can dissect defenses with precision. The Wolfpack are in great hands with him under center.
• Key Stats and Achievements: 64.9% completion rate, 2,413 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, ten interceptions, 279 rushing yards, five rushing touchdowns
Stepping into the starting role as a true freshman is no easy task, but Bailey handled it with grace and professionalism. He quickly earned the respect of his coaches and teammates.
Strengths:
• Arm strength
More Sports News
• Mobility
• Composure under pressure
Carson Beck, Miami
• Synopsis: Carson Beck has faced his share of doubts due to inconsistent offensive production. After falling short of high expectations in 2024 as a Bulldog, Beck now begins a new chapter as a Hurricane. Next season, we could see a rejuvenated version of Beck. The question remains: can he return to the level of play he’s capable of? The talent is still there, but it’s time to prove it.
Key Stats and Achievements: 64.7% completion rate, 3,485 yards, 28 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, one rushing touchdown
In one of the most grueling games of his career, Georgia relied on every trick in the playbook to secure a dramatic 44-42 victory over Georgia Tech in an eight-overtime thriller. Beck delivered a standout performance, finishing with five touchdowns to seal the win.
Strengths:
• Accuracy
• Arm strength and touch
• Mechanics
Haynes King, Georgia Tech
• Synopsis: Haynes King is one of the toughest players in the country. A true workhorse, he gets the job done whether it’s through the air or on the ground. King is the type of player coaches can count on to compete at a high level because he gives everything he has and leaves his heart on the field. There’s nothing he can’t do when it comes to leading his team.
Key Stats and Achievements: 72.9% completion rate, 2,114 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, two interceptions, 587 rushing yards, 11 rushing touchdowns
King’s toughness as a leader cannot be overstated. In Georgia Tech’s epic eight-overtime battle against Georgia, King stayed locked in, digging deep even as both teams were completely exhausted. In total, he ran 24 times for 110 yards and three touchdowns. Though the Yellow Jackets came up short, King proved to the world that he belongs in the QB conversations.
Strengths:
• Athleticism
• Arm talent
• Toughness
• Leadership
Kevin Jennings, SMU
• Synopsis: Kevin Jennings is an explosive athlete whose game is a thrill to watch. A dynamic dual-threat quarterback, Jennings can play big when it counts. He and Cade Klubnik put on a show during the 2024 ACC Championship game, showcasing their skills in an unforgettable display. As a defensive player, you definitely want to locate Jennings after every snap—he’s that dangerous. Give him a lane, and he’ll take it; give him a target, and he’ll deliver the ball with precision.
Key Stats and Achievements: 65.0% completion rate, 3,245 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, 11 interceptions, 354 rushing yards, five rushing touchdowns
Taking over for Preston Stone, Jennings led SMU to an ACC Championship appearance and their first-ever playoff berth in their inaugural season in the conference.
Strengths:
• Playmaking ability
• Intermediate to short accuracy
• Leadership
• Pocket presence
Cade Klubnik, Clemson
• Synopsis: Cade Klubnik is the clear-cut number one quarterback out of the ACC, and he, along with his team, is hungry for a national championship. An electrifying dual-threat, he’s capable of doing it all. The Clemson offense will run through him, and its success will depend on how he performs.
Key Stats and Achievements: 63.4% completion rate, 3,639 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, six interceptions, 463 rushing yards, seven rushing touchdowns
After a tough 34-3 loss to Georgia in the season opener, the Tigers rebounded with a six-game win streak, led by Klubnik, who also led Clemson to an ACC Championship and College Football Playoff appearance.
Strengths
• Dual-threat ability
• Poise under pressure
• Leadership
• Football IQ
• Intermediate and short route accuracy
