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With just days remaining before the 2025 college football season kicks off, teams are working relentlessly to get in peak shape and open the campaign at full throttle. Much has already been said about what is expected from Arch Manning, who will now begin his first year as a starting quarterback. This raises the question: Is he truly the best quarterback in the SEC?
Arch Manning and Longhorns look scary in offense
A fight featuring several big names in the SEC
The SEC is widely regarded as the most competitive conference in the NCAA, boasting elite talent on both offense and defense. Their unmatched ability to recruit five-star prospects keeps them in the national conversation every season. This year will be no different.
Manning will have the opportunity to unleash his full potential with the Texas Longhorns. Following Quinn Ewers’ departure to the NFL, he inherits the responsibility of leading the team to at least another semifinal, matching the program’s results from the past two seasons. The challenge is enormous, especially with expectations soaring. Many believe he will be a top prize in the 2026 NFL Draft should he declare, though some suggest he might wait until 2027. If that happens, he could be part of a stacked quarterback class entering the professional ranks.
Alongside Manning are names such as LaNorris Sellers of South Carolina, Garrett Nussmeir of LSU, and DJ Lagway of Florida, considered among the strongest contenders for the Heisman Trophy.
Others remain in the hunt, albeit a step below, including Washington State transfer John Mateer, now with Oklahoma, aiming to make a high-impact debut. Additionally, Austin Simmons (Ole Miss), Gunner Stockton (Georgia), and Ty Simpson (Alabama) are seen as potential breakout stars, though still trailing the top-tier candidates.
Quarterback rankings for 2025
Determining the SEC’s best quarterback involves a blend of factors: pure talent, supporting cast, having a clear hold on the No. 1 job, previous production, ’25 projection, and scheme changes.
- 1. Arch Manning, Texas Longhorns
Gifted with rare ability, Manning has already flashed brilliance in limited action. His strong arm, combined with dynamic rushing skill,s makes him a lethal dual-threat capable of leading Texas to a national title.
- 2. Garrett Nussmeir, LSU
The Tigers’ offensive leader proved in 2024 that he could take full control after Jayden Daniels’ departure. The Louisiana native benefits from a talented receiving corps that should elevate his numbers.
- 3. LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina
Guided by a coach who maximizes his skill set, Sellers posted 2,534 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, plus 674 rushing yards and seven scores. Improved balance could put him squarely in the Heisman conversation.
- 4. DJ Lagway, Florida
A physically imposing threat both through the air and on the ground, Lagway returns from injury ready to reach his ceiling under Billy Napier’s guidance. He averaged 10 yards per pass attempt before going down.
- 5. John Mateer, Oklahoma
Transferring from Washington State, Mateer aims to restore Oklahoma’s glory. His 3,139 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 826 rushing yards with 15 scores speak volumes-though maintaining that in the SEC will be tough.
Remaining list:
- Diego Pavia (Vanderbilt)
- Austin Simmons (Ole Miss)
- Taylen Green (Arkansas)
- Marcel Reed (Texas A&M)
- Gunner Stockton (Georgia)
- Ty Simpson (Alabama)
- Jackson Arnold (Auburn)
- Blake Shapen (Mississippi State)
- Joey Aguilar (Tennessee)
- Beau Pribula (Missouri)
- Zach Calzada (Kentucky).
This news was originally published on this post .
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