15. Eli Holstein, Pittsburgh
Eli Holstein has been one of the most pleasant surprises at quarterback this season. The freshman quarterback has Pittsburgh undefeated and can power the football downfield for big gains. Holstein hasn’t been perfect, throwing two picks and no touchdowns against California, but still won the game. He’s got 15 touchdowns against five interceptions this year.
16. Brendan Sorsby, Cincinnati
Indiana transfer Brendan Sorsby had played admirably through the first half of the year. He probably played his worst game against UCF on Saturday, although the Bearcats still mustered out a win. Sorsby plays with rhythm, timing, and can put great zip on the ball. Only a sophomore, we expect him to make big leaps throughout the rest of his career.
17. Conner Weigman, Texas A&M
Texas A&M QB Conner Weigman has gotten better and better as the season has progressed. He started off the season with a tough loss to Notre Dame where Weigman didn’t play his best. But with a new head coach and offensive coordinator, Weigman has locked in and improved. He looked like a whole different quarterback against Missouri in the upset win last week. He can process coverage at a high level and distribute with accuracy. Weigman completed 18-of-22 passes for 276 yards in the win over the Tigers.
18. Avery Johnson, Kansas State
There were times when Avery Johnson has looked like he needed much more seasoning in the passing game this year, and then he had moments of great progression. We all know Johnson is electric as a runner but he’s made strides in week seven as a passer to beat Colorado, 31-27. Johnson and Kansas State travel to West Virginia next.
19. Kevin Jennings, SMU
Kevin Jennings took over the starting spot for Preston Stone and has been magnificent for SMU. Against No. 22 Louisville last week Jennings completed 77% of his throws and also rushed for 113 yards. Jennings has an exciting arm and legs but takes care of the ball and makes quick and smart decisions. Expect him to move way up this list.
20. Sam Leavitt, Arizona State
Sam Leavitt and Arizona State just knocked off No. 16 Utah and the Sun Devils are 5-1 on the year. Leavitt has big play potential with his ability to evade the rush and make game-changing throws downfield. The young signal-caller should continue to grow under the guidance of Kenny Dillingham.
Just missed the top 20: Riley Leonard (Notre Dame), Kyle McCord (Syracuse), Graham Mertz (Florida), Tyler Shough (Louisville), Will Rogers (Washington), Behren Morton (Texas Tech).
