Quarterbacks Stepping into the Spotlight in 2023

1. Will Rogers, Mississippi State

Overshadowed by: Bryce Young, Hendon Hooker, Stetson Bennett

All Rogers has done in three years at Mississippi State is continually be one of the most productive passers in the nation. Yes, it comes with the caveat that he operates in a system that helps signal callers put up huge numbers, but that’s a bit beside the point. He’s unbelievably accurate and even without Mike Leach (RIP) calling the shots, he’s going to again be one of the best quarterbacks that no one talks about.

Oct 15, 2022; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Will Rogers (2) catches a snap during the first quarter against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kroger Field.

2. Michael Penix Jr., Washington

Overshadowed by: Caleb Williams, Bo Nix

Quietly, the Indiana transfer led all Power 5 quarterbacks in yards last season with 4,641, and was the reason that Kalen DeBoer‘s first season was such a huge success. With his top target Rome Odunze returning, Penix should be in the Heisman conversation this fall.

Sep 17, 2022; Seattle, Washington, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Michael Penix Jr. (9) celebrates with fans following a 39-28 victory against the Michigan State Spartans at Alaska Airlines Field at Husky Stadium.

3. Jordan Travis, Florida State

Overshadowed by: Drake Maye, Devin Leary, Sam Hartman

Florida State has a ton of hype and momentum heading into the 2023 season, and a lot of that has to do with the improved play of Travis. Drake Maye may not be going anywhere, but his OC Phil Longo left for Wisconsin, and both Leary and Hartman have transferred out of the conference. With the ‘Noles arguably the ACC favorite this fall, there’s going to be a huge spotlight on him.

Dec 29, 2022; Orlando, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jordan Travis (13) drops back to pass against the Oklahoma Sooners in the first quarter during the 2022 Cheez-It Bowl at Camping World Stadium.

4. Chevan Cordeiro, San Jose State

Overshadowed by: Jake Haener

Haener was a Group of 5 darling for two seasons, and for good reason. But with the Fresno State product now off to the draft, all eyes in the Mountain West should turn to Cordeiro, the former Hawai’i transfer who has come to the mainland and lit it up for the Spartans. He led the MWC in yards and touchdowns in 2022 and should do so again this fall.