The Top 10 Greatest College Football Quarterbacks of All-Time?

By Jason Bolton July 07, 2024 07:58

Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

College football has a long history of incredible quarterbacks who have made huge impressions on the sport. This complete assessment and ranking of the top future NFL quarterbacks is based on their signature statistics, accomplishments, playing style, strengths, and landing spots for each quarterback.

1. Kellen Moore, Boise State (2008-2011)

Record as starter: 50-3
Total TDs: 142
QB rating: 169.0
Career Awards: 7th in Heisman voting (2009), 4th (2010), and 8th (2011)
Championships: 3 WAC

One of the more impressive college careers we have ever seen. Such numbers Moore became one of college football's most successful passers to date, tallying 152 touchdowns to his name. Moore's impact on Boise State's program makes him one of the best college football quarterbacks ever.

2. Marcus Mariota, Oregon (2012-2014)

Record as starter: 36-5
Total TDs: 134
QB rating: 171.8
Awards: Heisman Trophy (2014) Consensus All-American
Titles: 1 Pac-12 champ

His electric playmaking ability, combined with his deadly efficiency as a signal-caller at Oregon, quickly elevated him to the top of college football. The Heisman Trophy, the Pac-12 title, his effect on Oregon's offense, and his leading it to a national championship game put Mariota in that conversation.

3. Joe Theismann, Notre Dame (1968-1970)

While at Notre Dame, Joe Theismann's play and quarterback leadership helped fuel Fighting Irish football's greatness. The success of Theismann also went beyond the field, becoming apparent through his leadership skills and commitment to others.

4. Andrew Luck, Stanford (2009-2011)

Record as starter: 31-8
Total TDs: (Not specified)
QB rating: (Not specified)
Awards: Pac-12 Offensive Player of the Year (2010, 2011)

Stanford was where we fully appreciated how intelligent, precise, and strong Luck's arm might be. He can still make a strong case for being one of the most NFL-ready college quarterbacks ever, and he was undeniably historically impactful during his time in college football; leading Stanford to two BCS bowl games made that clear.

5. Peyton Manning, Tennessee (1994-97)

Record as starter: 39-6
Total TDs: 101
QB rating: 147.1
Awards: Consensus All-American
Championships: One SEC title

Manning's remarkable record when starting and plenty of accomplishments to show for his time at Tennessee. He left a tremendous legacy on the Tennessee football program that cements him among the greatest college QBs ever.

6. Johnny Manziel, Texas A&M (2012-13)

Record as starter: 20-6
Total TDs: 93
QB rating: 164.1
Honors: Unanimous All-American (2012), Heisman Trophy.

His style was so dynamic and electric, that the Texas A&M quarterback was awarded college football's top prize, The Heisman Trophy. That, coupled with his impact on the Aggies offense and ability to lead that team, make him one of the greatest college QBs of all time.

7. Dan Marino, University of Pittsburgh (1979-1982)

The incomparable arm strength and accuracy of Dan Marino at the University of Pittsburgh transcended him to rare air as one of college football's best quarterbacks ever. That leaves a lasting legacy that includes setting all kinds of school records, making him one of the best college football quarterbacks ever played.

8. Jimmy Clausen, Notre Dame (2007-09)

Clausen's clutch play and ability to bring Notre Dame back under head coach Charlie Weis make him one of the best quarterbacks in college history. His production and improved play were noticed, resulting in a third-place finish for the Heisman Trophy.

9. Roger Staubach, Navy (1962-64)

Record as starter: 16-10-1
Total TDs: 36
QB rating: 132.1
Accolades: 1963 recipient of the Heisman Trophy, consensus All-American

Roger Staubach's exceptional quarterback play and leadership at the United States Naval Academy is what earned him the prestigious Heisman Trophy.

10. Vinny Testaverde, University of Miami (1983-86)

Record as starter: 21-3
Total TDs: 56
QB rating: 152.9
Honors: 1985 Heisman Trophy, Consensus All-American

All of his honors helped turn Vinny Testaverde from the starting quarterback at the University of Miami into a college football legend.

These are the top 10 best college football quarterbacks of all time, who have proven their quality by skill and leadership, molding titles to be remembered. Their exceptional careers and their reputations for enduring college football greatness are secure.