College football has long been a breeding ground for some of the greatest quarterbacks in the sport’s history. From legendary performances on the field to award-winning seasons that captive fans and analysts alike, the college years often serve to define a player’s career.
Our countdown of the top 15 college quarterbacks of the last two decades highlights those who not only set records but left an impact on the game. From Heisman Trophy winners to national champions, these quarterbacks showcase the skill, leadership, and determination that set them apart during their collegiate careers.
15. Caleb Williams (USC)
Caleb Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, excelled at USC with 72 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions over two seasons. He was drafted first overall by the Chicago Bears in 2024, showcasing his exceptional playmaking ability and confidence in his arm.
14. Matt Leinart (USC)
Matt Leinart, a Heisman Trophy winner in 2004, led USC to two national championships. He set multiple Pac-10 records and was a two-time First Team All-American. Leinart’s success at USC made him a top pick in the 2006 NFL Draft.
13. Bryce Young (Alabama)
Bryce Young dominated at Alabama, winning the Heisman Trophy in 2021. He finished his college career with 8,356 passing yards and 80 touchdowns, setting multiple records. Young’s impressive performance made him a standout in the storied Alabama program.
12. Jameis Winston (Florida State)
Jameis Winston led Florida State to a national championship in 2013, winning the Heisman Trophy as a freshman. He threw for 7,964 yards and 65 touchdowns in two seasons. Winston’s impact was significant, earning him a top-20 ranking among college quarterbacks of the 2000s.
11. Johnny Manziel (Texas A&M)
Johnny Manziel, known as “Johnny Football,” made history as the first freshman to win the Heisman Trophy in 2012. He led Texas A&M to significant victories, including a win over No. 1 Alabama. Manziel was inducted into the Texas A&M Athletics Hall of Fame in 2022.
10. Marcus Mariota (Oregon)
Marcus Mariota is renowned for his dynamic college career at Oregon. He won the Heisman Trophy in 2014 and holds numerous school records. Mariota threw for 10,796 yards and 105 touchdowns, with only 14 interceptions in three seasons.
9. Kyler Murray (Oklahoma)
Kyler Murray is renowned for his dynamic college career, winning the 2018 Heisman Trophy and leading Oklahoma to a 12-2 record. He achieved impressive stats with 4,361 passing yards and 42 touchdowns in his final season. Murray’s exceptional performance earned him numerous awards and accolades.
8. Trevor Lawrence (Clemson)
Trevor Lawrence, a standout Clemson quarterback, led the Tigers to three College Football Playoff appearances and a national championship. He completed 66.6% of his passes for 10,098 yards and 90 touchdowns. Lawrence was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
7. Lamar Jackson (Louisville)
Lamar Jackson is renowned for his dynamic college career at Louisville. He won the Heisman Trophy in 2016, showcasing impressive stats with 3,543 passing yards and 1,571 rushing yards that season. His electrifying performances earned him numerous accolades, including ACC Player of the Year.
6. Deshaun Watson (Clemson)
Deshaun Watson led Clemson to a national championship in 2016. He holds Clemson records for passing yards per game and touchdowns in a single game. Watson finished second in Heisman voting in 2016 and third in 2015.
5. Vince Young (Texas)
Vince Young led Texas to a national championship in 2005, boasting a 30-2 record as a starter. He threw for 6,040 yards and 44 touchdowns, while rushing for 3,127 yards and 37 touchdowns in college. His impressive stats and leadership cement his place among top college quarterbacks.
4. Tim Tebow (Florida)
Tim Tebow is renowned for his dynamic playmaking at Florida. He won the Heisman in 2007 and holds multiple SEC records. Tebow finished his college career with 145 total touchdowns, setting him apart as one of the most versatile quarterbacks in NCAA history.
3. Cam Newton (Auburn)
Cam Newton is renowned for his exceptional 2010 season at Auburn, where he won the Heisman Trophy and led the Tigers to a national championship. He threw for 2,589 yards and 28 touchdowns while rushing for 1,409 yards and 20 scores.
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2. Joe Burrow (LSU)
Joe Burrow led LSU to a 15-0 season and a national championship in 2019. He set records with 60 touchdowns and 5,671 passing yards, earning him the Heisman Trophy. Burrow’s impressive college career culminated in a historic season that cemented his status as one of the best college QBs.
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1. Baker Mayfield (Oklahoma)
Baker Mayfield is renowned for his exceptional college career at Oklahoma. He won the Heisman Trophy in 2017 and led the Sooners to the College Football Playoff. Mayfield holds top single-season passing efficiency records and boasts a career completion rate of 68.5% with 131 touchdowns.
