The SEC (Southeastern Conference) is set for an electrifying season, boasting a wealth of quarterback talent that promises weekly showdowns between potential Heisman Trophy contenders. There are 16 starting quarterbacks in the conference who aim to become the eighth SEC player to win the Heisman Award, the competition is expected to be a battle all season long.
The Sporting News ranked the 2025 SEC’s quarterbacks, with some familiar faces and exciting newcomers looking to take over that number one spot.
1. Arch Manning, Texas
Texas starter Arch Manning enters the 2025 season as The Sporting News’ No. 1 ranked quarterback in the SEC. In 2024, backing up Quinn Ewers, Manning showcased his potential, passing for 939 yards, nine touchdowns, and just two interceptions while leading the Longhorns to a 3-0 record in games he started.
2. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
Nussmeier returns as LSU’s starting quarterback after a stellar 2024 season, where he exploded for 4,052 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. “Our team, with the expectations coming from within, I obviously have expectations for myself, as well. The way that I kind of straddle those and keep those in check is by focusing on our team. My main goal is to help lead the LSU Tigers to a national championship and let the rest fall into place.“
3. LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina
LaNorris Sellers was a revelation last season, leading the Gamecocks to a 9-4 record, their best since 2017. Sellers impressed with 2,534 passing yards, 18 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, adding 674 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground.
4. DJ Lagway, Florida
DJ Lagway took over as Florida’s starting quarterback late last season, leading the Gators to four consecutive wins, including victories over ranked opponents LSU and Ole Miss. He finished the season with 1,915 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and nine interceptions.
5. Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia returns for another season after compiling 2,293 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and just four interceptions in 2024.
6. John Mateer, Oklahoma
Oklahoma added a significant piece to its offense by bringing in former Washington State quarterback John Mateer through the Transfer Portal.
“The people are great. The fans are great,” Mateer said in the offseason. “They’ve embraced me, and teammates and coaches have embraced me. I’ve built excellent relationships. I like all the guys. The strength test is good. I’ve gained some weight. Got a little bigger. Getting a little faster.“
7. Taylen Green, Arkansas
Taylen Green showcased his potential in the 2024 Autozone Liberty Bowl, leading Arkansas to victory with 341 passing yards and two touchdowns. Last season, he passed for 3,154 yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions in 13 games.
8. Marcel Reed, Texas A&M
Marcel Reed returns as the starting quarterback for Texas A&M after passing for 1,864 yards, 15 touchdowns, and six interceptions in 2024.
9. Gunner Stockton, Georgia
Gunner Stockton has stepped into the starting role for Georgia following Carson Beck’s departure. Stockton provided a glimpse of his ability in the SEC Championship game, leading the Bulldogs to an overtime win over Texas after Beck was injured.
10. Ty Simpson, Alabama
Ty Simpson faces the daunting task of following in the footsteps of Alabama quarterback greats like Jalen Milroe, Bryce Young, and Mac Jones. Simpson has limited experience, passing for just 381 yards over his three seasons with the Crimson Tide.
The 2025 SEC Football Media Days are scheduled to take place in Atlanta, Georgia, from July 14 to 17.
