As the 2025 college football season nears, USA TODAY Sports has published its much-anticipated Big 12 quarterback ranking, giving fans and analysts a closer look at who’s expected to lead the conference this fall. With returning veterans, rising stars, and new transfers all in the mix, the ranking offers a preview of how each team’s offense may shape up in one of the most competitive conferences in the nation.
Here are the seven biggest takeaways from the latest Big 12 quarterback ranking, and what they mean for the upcoming season.
Dillon Gabriel of Oklahoma takes the top spot in USA TODAY’s Big 12 quarterback ranking. Gabriel, now in his final year of eligibility, has shown consistency, leadership, and a deep understanding of the Sooners’ offensive scheme. After throwing for over 3,600 yards and 32 touchdowns last season, he returns with high expectations and a talented receiving corps that should elevate his numbers even further.
Analysts believe Gabriel’s experience will give Oklahoma a strong edge, especially in tough conference matchups.
Tyler Shough at Texas Tech is right behind Gabriel, coming in at No. 2. Known for his strong arm and ability to make plays under pressure, Shough is returning from a solid 2024 season where he threw 28 touchdown passes. With better protection up front and added weapons in the backfield, expectations are high that he’ll lead Texas Tech to a top-four conference finish.
Jalen Daniels from Kansas continues to rise, earning the No. 3 spot in the Big 12 quarterback ranking. Daniels was one of the most electric dual-threat quarterbacks last season, accounting for over 3,000 total yards. If he stays healthy, many believe Kansas could be a surprise contender in the conference.
Daniels’ leadership and playmaking ability make him a must-watch this season.
At No. 6 is Blake Shapen from Baylor, who remains a bit of a mystery heading into 2025. After a 2024 season filled with both high moments and frustrating inconsistency, he lands in the middle of the rankings. Shapen’s ability to take the next step could determine whether Baylor climbs into the top half of the standings or struggles to remain bowl eligible.
USA TODAY’s report mentioned that “Shapen has all the tools, but now he must put it all together.”
One of the more talked-about rankings was Kaidon Salter of Houston, who lands in the bottom half of the list. Salter transferred from Liberty with high hopes but had a rocky adjustment period in 2024. Though athletic and explosive, his decision-making and accuracy have raised concerns.
Still, if Salter can improve his consistency, he has the talent to climb this list quickly during the season.
Several Big 12 programs will be starting transfer quarterbacks, adding an element of unpredictability to the season. For example, Iowa State’s new starter, a transfer from the SEC, has shown flashes in spring practices but remains untested in Big 12 competition. USA TODAY placed him at No. 10, citing inexperience and the need for more data.
The mix of veteran QBs and first-year starters will make the early weeks of the season especially crucial.
Quarterback play often determines a team’s fate in the Big 12, and this year will be no different. Oklahoma, Texas Tech, and Kansas all have strong quarterback situations and are expected to compete for a spot in the conference title game.
Meanwhile, teams with mid- or lower-ranked QBs will need to rely heavily on defense and special teams to stay competitive.
The Big 12 quarterback ranking released by USA TODAY Sports provides fans with a preview of the conference’s most important position. While familiar names like Dillon Gabriel and Tyler Shough dominate the top, the rankings also reveal several players with breakout potential and others who will need to prove themselves quickly.
As the 2025 season approaches, quarterback play will be under the spotlight more than ever. With the Big 12 wide open, a few strong performances—or mistakes—could change the trajectory of the entire conference.
Keep an eye on early-season matchups and mid-season developments as these quarterbacks try to climb the rankings and lead their teams to victory.
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