Full Breakdown
Spring 2026 College Football Quarterback Battles Heat Up
4/6/2026, 9:25:52 PM
Overview of Key Competitions
As spring practice concludes for college football teams, several prominent quarterback competitions are unfolding across the Power Four conferences. With teams allowed 15 spring practices, coaching staffs are utilizing scrimmages and spring games to evaluate players and establish depth charts ahead of the 2026 season. Notably, Tennessee, Florida State, Alabama, Virginia, and Florida are experiencing intense battles for their starting quarterback positions.
Tennessee's Quarterback Race
At the University of Tennessee, head coach Josh Heupel faces a challenging decision as he evaluates a three-man race for the starting quarterback role. The contenders include redshirt freshman George MacIntyre, five-star true freshman Faizon Brandon, and redshirt junior Ryan Staub, a transfer from Colorado. Following a judge's denial of Joey Aguilar's eligibility for an additional season, Heupel's options are limited. MacIntyre has the most experience, having made nine passing attempts last season, while Brandon, who was the No. 3 overall player in the 2026 recruiting cycle, has impressed coaches with his decision-making. Heupel has indicated that the competition is still open, and the decision may extend into the fall.
Florida State's Adjustments
Florida State University is also navigating a quarterback competition as coach Mike Norvell adjusts to a new offensive scheme following Gus Malzahn's retirement. The two primary challengers are Ashton Daniels, a transfer from Auburn, and Kevin Sperry. Daniels, who has experience in multiple offenses, is adapting to his fourth scheme in four years. Norvell has noted that both players need to learn from their mistakes during practices, and the competition may continue into fall camp, as the Seminoles are not holding a spring game this year.
Alabama's Leadership Challenge
At the University of Alabama, head coach Kalen DeBoer is overseeing a quarterback battle between Austin Mack and Keelon Russell. Mack, a transfer from Washington, is seen as a frontrunner due to his familiarity with DeBoer's system. DeBoer has emphasized the importance of leadership qualities in his quarterbacks, noting that both Mack and Russell have shown genuine care for their teammates. The competition is expected to persist into fall practice, as DeBoer seeks to replace significant offensive production from the previous season.
Virginia's New Additions
The University of Virginia is also in the midst of a quarterback competition, with Beau Pribula, a transfer from Missouri, and Eli Holstein, a transfer from Pittsburgh, vying for the starting position. Following Chandler Morris's denial of a seventh year of eligibility, head coach Tony Elliott is looking to solidify the quarterback position. Pribula, who has starting experience, and Holstein, who previously played for Alabama, are both seen as capable candidates.
Florida's Tight Contest
The University of Florida is experiencing a competitive quarterback battle between Austin Philo, a transfer from Georgia Tech, and Tramell Jones. Philo, who has worked under new offensive coordinator Buster Faulkner, is considered to have an advantage due to his familiarity with the system. Head coach Jon Sumrall has expressed that both quarterbacks are pushing each other in a healthy manner, and the competition remains open as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Conclusion
As spring practices wrap up, the quarterback competitions at Tennessee, Florida State, Alabama, Virginia, and Florida highlight the uncertainty and excitement surrounding college football heading into the 2026 season. Coaches are closely monitoring player performances, and decisions regarding starting roles may extend into the fall, reflecting the dynamic nature of college football's quarterback landscape.
