College football quarterback evaluation is an inexact science. While some players, like Kurtis Rourke, manage to shine despite not being in the spotlight, others—often highly touted signees and transfers—can disappoint dramatically. This year, we’ve seen a number of quarterbacks who were expected to lead their teams falter instead, leaving fans and analysts scratching their heads.
10 QBs who have turned out to be busts in 2024
The term “bust” is often thrown around in sports, but it feels particularly fitting when discussing these ten college quarterbacks whose performances have been lackluster at best. From injuries to poor decision-making, let’s dive into the seasons of these players who have failed to meet expectations.
#1. DJ Uiagalelei, Florida State
Once considered a scapegoat at Clemson, Uiagalelei seemed to find his footing at Oregon State, but his time at Florida State has been a nightmare. The Seminoles have struggled across the board, and Uiagalelei’s performance has mirrored that. He managed just 6.8 yards per pass attempt, throwing four touchdowns against six interceptions before being benched. It’s a disappointing fall from grace for a player once thought to be a future star.
#2. Grayson McCall, NC State
After a stellar career at Coastal Carolina, expectations were high for McCall at NC State. However, injuries plagued his season, ultimately leading to his retirement from football. When on the field, McCall struggled, averaging only 6.5 yards per pass attempt with three touchdowns and two interceptions. His potential was never fully realized, leaving fans wondering what could have been.
#3. Alex Orji, Michigan
Orji was heralded as a great athlete who could be molded into a solid quarterback. Unfortunately, his time as QB1 has been anything but successful. With a staggering average of just 3.4 yards per pass, he struggled to find his rhythm and eventually gave way to walk-on Grant Warren. It’s a tough break for a player with so much promise.
#4. Brock Vandagriff, Kentucky
After transferring from Georgia, Vandagriff was expected to make an impact at Kentucky. Instead, his performance has been dismal. Averaging only 7.3 yards per pass, his 10 touchdowns to eight interceptions have not impressed anyone. Freshman Cutter Boley is set to take over for Vandagriff in the season finale, signaling a disappointing end to his season.
#5. Conner Weigman, Texas A&M
Weigman had shown flashes of brilliance as a backup, throwing 16 touchdowns to just two interceptions over the past two years. However, given the starting role in 2024, he struggled mightily, leading to his benching after a three-touchdown, five-interception performance. It raises the question: can he reclaim his former glory?
#6. Jalon Daniels, Kansas
Daniels was a reliable backup last year, showcasing impressive stats with 9.4 yards per throw and five touchdowns to one interception. However, stepping into the starting role has not gone as planned. His numbers dipped to 7.8 yards per pass, with 14 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Kansas has faced a tough season, and Daniels’ regression has been a significant factor.
#7. Donovan Smith, Houston
Smith had a solid season last year, throwing for 2,801 yards and 22 touchdowns. This year, however, he has struggled, managing only four touchdowns against six interceptions. His inability to hold down the starting job has left fans puzzled about what went wrong.
#8. Noah Fifita, Arizona
Fifita’s performance mirrors that of Carson Beck, as both have seen significant drops in their production. Last year, he averaged 8.6 yards per pass, but that number has plummeted to 7.1 this season. With 17 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, Fifita’s regression has played a crucial role in Arizona’s disappointing campaign.
#9. Graham Mertz, Florida
Mertz’s season has been marred by injuries, and while he wasn’t terrible, his performance left much to be desired. The Gators were 2-3 with Mertz as the starter, but have since found success with freshman DJ Lagway, who has brought a much-needed spark to the offense. Mertz’s struggles highlight the unpredictability of quarterback play.
#10. Carson Beck, Georgia
Beck’s performance in 2024 has been a letdown compared to his previous season. His yards per pass attempt dropped from 9.5 to 8.0, and his touchdown-to-interception ratio worsened from 24-6 to 23-12. While he hasn’t been awful, the drop in production is concerning for a player expected to lead Georgia’s offense.
Which QBs do you think have been the biggest busts of 2024? The unpredictability of college football means that even the most promising players can falter, leaving fans to wonder what went wrong. Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
