The 2025 college football season has seen a surge in deep‑ball efficiency, with several quarterbacks posting completion rates that dwarf the national average on throws of 20 yards or more.
Deep‑Pass Efficiency Leaders
Julian Sayin of Ohio State tops the list, completing 62.0 percent of his deep attempts and registering only a single turnover‑worthy play on passes that travel beyond the sticks.
Dante Moore of Oregon follows closely, having thrown 15 deep touchdowns and ranking first among returning signal callers in deep‑pass grade.
The article also highlights three transfer quarterbacks — Byrum Brown, Jayden Maiava and Trinidad Chambliss — who earned recognition thanks to elite downfield efficiency.
Supporting Casts and Challenges
Sayin’s success is amplified by a potent receiving corps that includes standout wideout Jeremiah Smith and veteran Carnell Tate, while the offensive line has provided the pocket stability needed for his pure pocket‑passing style.
Moore’s deep arsenal is complemented by a dynamic set of playmakers, though his performance was marred by a costly interception against Oregon that could affect his Heisman trajectory.
Brown brings a strong arm that allows him to layer throws over defenders, completing 52.7 percent of his deep attempts, while Maiava led the nation in deep passing yards and completions before a late‑season pick.
Chambliss, known for his quick release — averaging just 2.75 seconds on deep throws — posted a 50.9 percent completion rate, a figure that will be tested without Lane Kiffin’s play‑calling and the loss of top receiver De’Zhaun Stribling.
Heisman Outlook and Future Tests
The Heisman conversation now includes these quarterbacks, but each faces distinct challenges: Sayin must maintain his low turnover rate, Moore must rebound from his interception, and Chambliss must prove he can thrive without his former coordinator and top target.