Garrett Nussmeier, LSU

At this point, Garrett Nussmeier is a reasonably familiar player to LSU fans. He's only started once, but he's thrown 219 passes over the last three seasons. Nussmeier, who excelled in the ReliaQuest Bowl victory over Wisconsin, is a far more traditional passer than Jayden Daniels. On the bright side for Nussmeier, the offensive line could be one of the best in the country. He should be well-protected this fall.

Nico Iamaleava, Tennessee

Expectations are soaring for Nico Iamaleava, a 5-star signee in the 2023 cycle. He served as UT's backup quarterback last season, save for a memorable start in the Citrus Bowl. Iamaleava boasts a gifted dual-threat skill set and plays in a QB-friendly offense. On paper, he's a breakout candidate. The challenge for Tennessee will be navigating a stacked SEC.

Jackson Arnold, Oklahoma

Similar to Iamaleava, Jackson Arnold was a 5-star in 2023 who landed his starting debut in the postseason. Arnold is also a mobile QB, something he showed with 63 rushing yards on eight non-sack attempts in the Alamo Bowl. That talent will be heavily tested, though; OU plays Tennessee, Texas, Ole Miss, Missouri, Alabama and LSU this year.

Avery Johnson, Kansas State

There's a trend here, huh? Avery Johnson earned a top-100 rating in the 2023 class and opened the Pop-Tarts Bowl for Kansas State. Johnson is another exciting dual-threat talent and offers a little more experience since K-State routinely used him in a package role as a freshman. Johnson has much to prove as a high-volume passer, but the program is understandably thrilled about his playmaking ability.

Cam Ward, Miami

Miami has assembled a quality supporting cast around Cam Ward, who's a fascinating player. While a capable runner, he's typically leaned on impressive arm talent for his production. The issue is that, though the best version of Ward is superb, inconsistency plagued him during two seasons at Washington State. Blending his skill with efficiency will be imperative.

Miller Moss, USC

In case you missed the "former top recruit who started a bowl" trend, Miller Moss checks that box. Caleb Williams' departure put Moss into the lineup for the Holiday Bowl, and he dazzled with a six-touchdown display. Moss is a pocket passer, so the Trojans will be adjusting to a different style of offense in 2024.