By Dorrington Myers
When I think of dual-threat quarterbacks, I focus on how they operate both inside and outside the pocket, how they evade pressure and deliver throws on the move.
This Tale of the Tape features two QBs who embody that exact skill set. Haynes King will lead Georgia Tech, while Kaidon Salter is expected to take the reins for Colorado. Both programs are guided by strong-willed head coaches, Brent Key for the Yellow Jackets and Deion Sanders for the Buffaloes, and their quarterbacks reflect that same toughness, grit and determination to win.
Some might overlook this game, but I can’t. It has all the ingredients of a gritty, exciting battle between two fearless leaders. The Yellow Jackets will take on the Buffaloes on Aug. 29 at Folsom Field.
Haynes King, Georgia Tech
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2024 stats: 2,114 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 11 rushing touchdowns
Strengths: Mobility, toughness, arm talent, football IQ
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If King can stay healthy this season, he’s a legitimate Heisman Trophy candidate in my eyes. Despite missing time last year, he still put up impressive numbers, showcasing his ability to impact the game through the air and on the ground. With a full season under his belt, the ceiling is high for what King can accomplish.
He’s the kind of quarterback you want to go to war with— tough, dependable and relentless. Every snap, he gives everything he’s got. As a passer, King combines excellent velocity with precise ball placement, notable arm strength and the ability to make throws on the move. He’s also a talented passer of the deep ball. Add in his experience, deep understanding of the offensive system and hunger to return to peak form, and you have a quarterback ready for a breakout year.
Kaidon Salter, Colorado
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2024 stats at Liberty: 1,886 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, 6 interceptions, 7 rushing touchdowns
Strengths: Arm talent, mobility, awareness
Salter has a golden opportunity in front of him. With Shedeur Sanders now in the NFL, Salter steps into a prime position to take over as QB1 for Colorado and mentor five-star freshman Julian Lewis along the way. The Liberty transfer brings experience and playmaking ability, and he’ll benefit from a Colorado coaching staff loaded with NFL-level expertise. Development won’t be a concern here.
Salter’s arm talent stands out, especially when throwing the deep ball and operating off play-action, two areas in which he consistently excels. His pocket awareness also shows up against the blitz, where he remains composed and decisive. These are traits Sanders and his staff can build on and maximize. If Salter takes the reins with confidence, he could elevate Colorado’s offense in a major way.
Key Questions
King: Can he stay healthy and lead his team through a full season?
Salter: Will his game successfully translate to the speed and physicality of Big 12 competition?
Final Remarks
I’ve got this game circled as a must watch. Quarterbacks like King and Salter bring a dynamic, versatile edge that makes college football exciting. Add in two battle tested coaches and we’re in for a strategic chess match on both sides of the ball.
NFL scouts should have this one on their radar. These quarterbacks deserve a serious look. The Big 12 and ACC are producing some talented quarterback prospects.
