Full Breakdown
Ranking the Big 12 Quarterbacks for 2026: A Comprehensive Overview
4/10/2026, 9:12:06 PM
Core Event: Big 12 Quarterback Rankings for 2026
As the 2026 college football season approaches, the Big 12 Conference is witnessing significant turnover among starting quarterbacks. This article ranks the projected starting quarterbacks, highlighting their experiences, statistics, and potential impact on their respective teams.
Key Figures & Groups: Notable Quarterbacks
1. Bear Bachmeier, BYU: Bachmeier is set to start for the Cougars for a second consecutive year, marking a rare occurrence in the current landscape of college football. He finished the previous season with impressive stats, including 2,705 passing yards and 25 touchdowns, alongside 700 rushing yards and 11 rushing touchdowns.
2. Brendan Sorsby, Texas Tech: Sorsby is noted for his exceptional performance in 2025, boasting a PFF grade that ranked him highest among projected starters. He achieved a remarkable 27 touchdowns to just five interceptions, showcasing his efficiency.
3. Noah Fifita, Arizona: With the most career passing yards among Big 12 quarterbacks and two nine-plus win seasons, Fifita is recognized for his experience and consistency. He is on track to break several passing records at Arizona.
4. Drew Mestemaker, Oklahoma State: The reigning FBS passing yard champion, Mestemaker had a standout season with 4,379 yards and 34 touchdowns. His transition to Oklahoma State is highly anticipated.
5. Avery Johnson, Kansas State: Johnson aims to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season. He is recognized for his athleticism, having accumulated over 1,000 rushing yards in the past two seasons.
6. Jalen Raynor, Iowa State: Raynor has established himself as a solid starter with back-to-back bowl wins at Arkansas State. His experience positions him favorably in the rankings.
7. JC French IV, Cincinnati: French arrives from Georgia Southern with a strong track record, including back-to-back 2,800-plus passing yard seasons, indicating potential for growth in the Big 12.
8. Cutter Boley, Arizona State: Boley has some starting experience from his time at Kentucky, but his performance has been mixed, as reflected in his PFF grade of 59.4.
9. Michael Hawkins Jr., West Virginia: Hawkins is relatively unproven, having spent two seasons at Oklahoma with limited success, making him a wildcard in the rankings.
10. Lagway, Baylor: Despite being a highly touted recruit, Lagway's performance has been inconsistent, leading to questions about his ability to capitalize on his potential in a new environment.
Why It Matters: Implications for the 2026 Season
The rankings of these quarterbacks are crucial as they will significantly influence their teams' performances in the upcoming season. With several teams breaking in new starters, the ability of these quarterbacks to adapt and lead will be pivotal in determining the competitive landscape of the Big 12.
Criticism & Opposition: Perspectives on Rankings
Some analysts argue that the rankings may undervalue quarterbacks like Jalen Raynor and Bear Bachmeier, who have demonstrated consistent performance. Critics suggest that the depth of talent in the Big 12 could lead to unexpected outcomes, making these rankings subjective.
Verbatim Quotes
- “For being a teenager and true freshman, Bachmeier showed poise and leadership beyond his years.” — Analyst, Vanquish the Foe
- “If we were ranking current NFL prospects in the Big 12, he is probably No.” — Analyst, Vanquish the Foe
- “Whatever pro career, or lack thereof is in Fifita’s future, there is no arguing against him being the most decorated, battle-tested, and experienced quarterbacks in the Big 12 in 2026.” — Analyst, Vanquish the Foe
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While most sources agree on the potential of quarterbacks like Sorsby and Fifita, there is some disagreement regarding the rankings of newcomers like Mestemaker and Lagway, with varying opinions on their readiness for the FBS level.
As the 2026 season approaches, the performance of these quarterbacks will be closely monitored, as they play a crucial role in shaping the future of their programs within the Big 12 Conference.
