Backup quarterbacks reshaping college football’s depth charts
The Athletic recently released its highly anticipated ranking of the top ten backup quarterbacks across college football, a list that underscores how depth can be as critical as starters in the modern game. The publication examined eligibility, recent performance and projected impact, offering a snapshot of which reserve signal‑callers are poised to make the biggest leaps.
Leading the pack is Oregon’s Dylan Raiola, a former Nebraska standout who arrives in Eugene with three years of eligibility remaining. Raiola will serve as the backup to Dante Moore, the team’s projected starter, and his proven skill set includes a 69.1% career completion rate, 4,819 passing yards and 31 touchdowns at Nebraska.
St. Clair’s looming takeover
Close behind at No. 5 is Ohio State’s Tavien St. Clair, a former five‑star recruit who has logged just 13 snaps and two pass attempts in his collegiate career. Despite the limited exposure, St. Clair is slated to inherit the starting role in 2027 should Julian Sayin elect for the NFL Draft, a transition that could reshape the Buckeyes’ offense.
Michigan’s Brayden Fowler‑Nicolosi earned the No. 10 spot after transferring from Colorado State, where he started 27 straight games and amassed 6,938 yards with 38 touchdowns. Alongside him, the Wolverines also count freshmen Tommy Carr and Brady Smigiel among their backup options, adding youthful depth to the position.
The rankings also reflect broader storylines, such as Oregon’s backup situation mirroring the previous season when Moore backed up Dillon Gabriel, and the ripple effect of transfers and early enrolments across power‑conference programs. Each player’s trajectory offers a glimpse into how teams are planning for both immediate contests and future campaigns.