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Adam Rittenberg, ESPN Senior Writer
Spring practice is over and many of the key transfer portal decisions have been made, making it the perfect time to bring back Future Power Rankings — a personnel-based look at the next three seasons around college football.
After examining quarterbacks and defenses, the offenses are in the spotlight, and the landscape is always evolving. Last year’s FPR offense piece opened with a scene from Washington’s practice, noting standouts like quarterback Michael Penix Jr., wide receivers Rome Odunze and Jalen McMillan, and tackle Roger Rosengarten. All of them are gone, selected in the top 100 picks of last month’s NFL draft. Washington also has a new coach (Jedd Fisch) and an entirely new offensive depth chart. Given all the uncertainty, Washington barely made the top 25 offenses through the 2026 season.
There are changes elsewhere, even since the quarterback FPR list back in March. Georgia enhanced its future quarterback outlook with transfer Jaden Rashada, while Miami added to its offensive backfield with running back Damien Martinez. Colorado has reshaped its running back room with Ohio State’s Dallan Hayden and Miami (Ohio)’s Rashad Amos, while losing Dylan Edwards to Kansas State and Alton McCaskill to Arizona State.
Given all the roster fluctuation, the rankings lean more on coaching. Those who have overseen perennially elite offenses — USC’s Lincoln Riley, Ohio State’s Ryan Day, Ole Miss’ Lane Kiffin, Alabama’s Kalen DeBoer, FSU’s Mike Norvell, Tennessee’s Josh Heupel and Texas’ Steve Sarkisian — will continue to be represented here. Coaches taking new jobs — Fisch at Washington, Jeff Lebby at Mississippi State — also will gain consideration.
As always, the offense rankings will largely mirror the quarterback ones, although there are some key differences, especially for teams that have fortified areas such as the offensive line.
Let’s get started.
2024 future QB power ranking: 1
2023 future offense power ranking: 2
Scouting the Buckeyes: Ohio State’s notable winter personnel push bolstered not only its 2024 offense with transfer players like quarterback Will Howard (Kansas State), running back Quinshon Judkins (Ole Miss) and center Seth McLaughlin (Alabama), but future units with quarterback Julian Sayin, a top 10 recruit who initially signed with Alabama. The Buckeyes have retained Devin Brown and their other quarterbacks for now, and while the room surely will turn over in 2025, coach Ryan Day and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly have plenty of options. Judkins and TreVeyon Henderson form the nation’s best running back combination for the fall, but the room changed a bit with Hayden’s transfer. The post-2024 outlook there could hinge on James Peoples, a top-200 recruit in 2024, but Ohio State likely will remain active in the portal, if only for depth. Offensive line is an area that must improve after 2023, as senior guard Donovan Jackson leads the group. Fellow seniors McLaughlin, left tackle Josh Simmons and right tackle/guard Josh Fryar provide short-term solutions, while younger players such as juniors Tegra Tshabola and Carson Hinzman, and sophomore Luke Montgomery will be factors through at least 2025. Although Ohio State signed 13 ESPN 300 recruits in 2024, only one (tackle Ian Moore) plays offensive line.
Despite bringing in Kelly, Day retained co-coordinator Brian Hartline, who will continue to oversee an elite wide receiver group. Senior Emeka Egbuka, who had six 100-yard receiving performances in 2022, could be a national awards candidate if healthy. Sophomores Carnell Tate and Brandon Inniss form a strong post-2024 core with incoming freshman Jeremiah Smith, ESPN’s No. 4 recruit who dazzled during spring practice. Sophomore Bryson Rodgers and senior Jayden Ballard are solid depth pieces, and Ohio State has a 2025 commitment from ESPN 300 wideout De’Zie Jones. The tight end group will miss Cade Stover, a fourth-round draft pick, but Ohio State added Will Kacmarek from Ohio and could get a lift from veteran Gee Scott Jr. The team added ESPN 300 recruit Max LeBlanc this year and has a 2025 commit from another in Nate Roberts.
2024 future QB power ranking: 2
2023 future offense power ranking: 9
Scouting the Longhorns: Texas hired Steve Sarkisian largely because of his offensive acumen, and the Longhorns are headed in a positive trajectory as they enter the SEC following their first College Football Playoff appearance. The program is at a point where it can replace great players with other great players — like running back Jonathon Brooks stepping in for Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson. Brooks is now gone to the NFL, but sophomore CJ Baxter and junior Jaydon Blue are set to step in after combining for 1,057 yards and eight touchdowns in 2023. The group adds incoming freshman Jerrick Gibson, ESPN’s No. 2 running back and No. 59 overall recruit. The ball-carriers will share a backfield this fall with Quinn Ewers, a preseason Heisman candidate, and then Arch Manning, set to guide the offense through at least 2025. There should be depth behind Manning with incoming four-star recruit Trey Owens and 2025 recruit K.J. Lacey. Texas lost Ja’Tavion Sanders to the NFL draft but returns Gunnar Helm, who had 14 catches last season, and adds Alabama transfer Amari Niblack.
The wide receiver room has a new look with transfers Isaiah Bond (Alabama), Matthew Golden (Houston) and Silas Bolden (Oregon State). They combined for 2,952 receiving yards at their previous stops and will add to a group that brings back sophomore Johntay Cook II, who had eight receptions last fall. Sarkisian signed an impressive group of 2024 wide receivers, headlined by Ryan Wingo, ESPN’s No. 33 overall recruit. If the transfers pan out — Bond and Golden both are juniors — there should be more than enough production at the position through 2026. Texas’ offensive line is finally becoming a strength again, and brings back a potentially elite group with tackle Kelvin Banks Jr., center Jake Majors and guards Hayden Conner and DJ Campbell all back (Banks and Campbell with multiple years of eligibility). Junior Cameron Williams, at 360 pounds, is set to replace NFL draft pick Christian Jones at tackle. Texas signed Brandon Baker, ESPN’s No. 40 recruit for 2024, and two ESPN 300 guards.
2024 future QB power ranking: 4
2023 future offense power ranking: 3
Scouting the Bulldogs: Since the start of the 2022 season, Georgia trails only Oregon in yards per game and just Oregon and USC in points per game. After falling short of the CFP last fall, the Bulldogs likely will enter 2024 as the preseason favorite to claim both a national title and a Heisman Trophy with quarterback Carson Beck, who finished in the top-5 nationally in both passing yards (3,941) and completion percentage (72.4%) last fall. Rashada, a top-35 recruit who initially signed with Florida before landing at Arizona State, could be the natural successor to Beck, although Gunner Stockton remains and Georgia added Ryan Puglisi, ESPN’s No. 109 overall recruit for 2024. Junior transfer Trevor Etienne, who had 1,472 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns with Florida, will lead the running backs alongside burly sophomore Roderick Robinson II, who performed well in limited work last fall, and junior Cash Jones. Georgia also regains Branson Robinson, a top-40 recruit in 2022 who missed last season with a knee injury. Brock Bowers surely will be missed but Georgia should maintain the nation’s best tight end room with junior Oscar Delp, Stanford transfer Benjamin Yurosek, incoming freshman Jaden Reddell (ESPN 300 No. 51) and the nation’s top two 2025 tight end recruits in Elyiss Williams and Ethan Barbour.
Despite losing NFL first round draft pick Amarius Mims and center Sedrick Van Pran-Granger, Georgia’s offensive line projects well for 2024 and beyond. There’s great leadership with senior guard Tate Ratledge, a second-team AP All-America selection, and versatile senior Xavier Truss. Left tackle Earnest Greene III shined in his first season as a starter and will play at least through 2023. Fourth-year junior Jared Wilson is set to replace Van Pran-Granger at center, while juniors Dylan Fairchild and Micah Morris will compete for time this season and beyond. Redshirt sophomore Drew Bobo is a solid depth piece and Georgia has plenty of options through 2026, including Jamal Meriweather and four incoming freshman tackles rated in the ESPN 300. Senior Dominic Lovett returns to lead the receivers after a 54-catch season. He will be joined by senior Rara Thomas, promising junior Dillon Bell and Miami transfer Kolbie Young (930 receiving yards, 10 touchdowns). If there’s a knock on coach Kirby Smart’s stellar recruiting, it would be the lack of many truly elite receiver prospects.
2024 future QB power ranking: 3
2023 future offense power ranking: 13
Scouting the Ducks: Oregon had strong teams and elite offensive players under Mario Cristobal, but the collection of personnel didn’t always translate to unit production. In coach Dan Lanning’s first two seasons with the Ducks, meanwhile, the offense leads the nation in yards per game (516.6) and is tied with USC in points per game (41.6). Oregon has thrived under two different offensive coordinators, Kenny Dillingham and Will Stein. Although quarterback Bo Nix heads off to the NFL, Oregon is set up well to replace him both in the short term with Oklahoma transfer Dillon Gabriel and for 2025 and 2026 with UCLA transfer Dante Moore, ESPN’s No. 2 overall recruit in 2023, as well as Austin Novosad, incoming freshman Luke Moga and 2025 legacy QB recruit Akili Smith Jr. (ESPN’s No. 87 prospect). Top wideout Troy Franklin will be missed but Oregon landed Texas A&M transfer Evan Stewart, a former top-15 recruit, to complement seniors Tez Johnson (1,182 receiving yards, 10 touchdowns) and Traeshon Holden, junior Gary Bryant Jr. and several exciting younger players, such as sophomores Jurrion Dickey and Kyler Kasper. Oregon signed four ESPN 300 receivers in 2024 and already has three committed for 2025, headlined by Dallas Wilson, ESPN’s No. 31 recruit.
Despite losing center and Rimington Trophy winner Jackson Powers-Johnson to the NFL, Oregon’s offensive line projects well. Junior tackle Josh Conerly Jr. should be on the NFL radar after this year, as he held up well during his first season as a starter. Conerly will play opposite senior tackle Ajani Cornelius and once again alongside senior guard Marcus Harper II. The Ducks likely will be replacing all three in 2025, along with other seniors like George Silva and Nishad Strother. The Ducks must address immediate holes at center and guard with sophomore Iapani Laloulu and Indiana transfer Matthew Bedford, respectively. Other than Laloulu, Oregon’s development of non-senior linemen such as guard Kawika Rogers will be significant. Junior Jordan James is a natural successor to Bucky Irving after rushing for 759 yards and 11 scores last season. Junior Noah Whittington also returns, and Jayden Limar logged 24 carries as a true freshman. Senior tight end Terrance Ferguson is back after a 42-catch, six-touchdown season, and leads a group also including senior Patrick Herbert and sophomore Kenyon Sadiq.
2024 future QB power ranking: 6
2023 future offense power ranking: 4
Scouting the Tide: There’s little doubt that new Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer will have the Tide offense rolling. The only question is: How soon? DeBoer inherits some key pieces, most notably quarterback Jalen Milroe, but the offense will have some new faces on the field and the sideline. Alabama’s ability to handle transition will be tested. Milroe will lead the offense at least through 2024. Although Alabama lost Sayin to Ohio State, it returns sophomore Ty Simpson and redshirt freshman Dylan Lonergan, and adds Austin Mack, who followed DeBoer from Washington. Along with Milroe, running backs Jam Miller and Justice Haynes, both non-seniors, will handle most of the immediate rushing load, although redshirt freshman Richard Young also should contribute. The Tide will have new receiving options after losing Jermaine Burton to the draft and both Bond and Niblack to Texas. Senior CJ Dippre returns at tight end after an 11-catch season, along with sophomore Danny Lewis Jr. and senior Robbie Ouzts.
After coaching the nation’s top wide receiving corps at Washington, JaMarcus Shephard takes over a mostly new-look group with a familiar face in Germie Bernard, who followed the staff from UW to Tuscaloosa. Juniors Kobe Prentice and Kendrick Law combined for 33 receptions last year and should have bigger roles. The immediate depth is worth watching as junior Emmanuel Henderson Jr. could see more time, and Ryan Williams, ESPN’s No. 3 overall recruit, arrives this summer. Alabama also has a 2025 commit from Derick Smith, ESPN’s No. 30 prospect. DeBoer oversaw the Joe Moore Award-winning offensive line at Washington, but line coach Scott Huff stayed behind in Seattle (with the Seahawks) and Alabama is looking for improvement up front. The transfers of interior linemen Seth McLaughlin and James Brockermeyer create opportunities for incoming transfer Parker Brailsford and others. Juniors Tyler Booker and Jaeden Roberts return along with tackle Kadyn Proctor, set to rejoin the Tide after briefly transferring home to Iowa. Other than Proctor, Alabama has some immediate questions at tackle, where sophomore Elijah Pritchell, redshirt freshman Wilkin Formby and others are in the mix. If the line can navigate some Year 1 challenges, it should be strong in 2025 and 2026.
2024 future QB power ranking: 5
2023 future offense power ranking: 1
Scouting the Trojans: The placement seems low for a Riley-coached offense but there’s some uncertainty after the departures of quarterback Caleb Williams — the No. 1 overall pick in last month’s draft — as well as top running back MarShawn Lloyd, leading receivers Tahj Washington and Brenden Rice, among others. If Miller Moss can build on his record-setting Holiday Bowl performance, USC’s quarterback play shouldn’t drop off significantly, especially with UNLV transfer Jayden Maiava also in the fold, and Julian Lewis, ESPN’s top-rated 2025 recruit, ready to step in relatively soon. The Trojans need their offensive line to become a bigger strength as they enter the Big Ten, especially after a somewhat disappointing 2023 season. Versatile senior Jonah Monheim, who has played tackle and guard earlier in his career, is shifting to center for his final season. Monheim and fellow seniors Emmanuel Pregnon and Gino Quinones are all back, but USC will also lean on younger players like redshirt freshman Elijah Paige, who started at left tackle in the bowl game. Paige is critical to the line’s long-term outlook, along with junior tackle Mason Murphy, sophomore guard Alani Noa and redshirt freshman guard Amos Talalele. USC signed ESPN 300 guard Makai Saina in the 2024 class, but its O-line recruiting will be important to track.
The receiver spot projects well with Zachariah Branch and Duce Robinson back for at least two more seasons. Branch logged 31 receptions as a freshman, while Robinson averaged 21.9 yards per catch. Junior Kyron Hudson and sophomore Makai Lemon are solid depth pieces, and USC brought back Kyle Ford from UCLA (he played for the Trojans from 2020 to 2022) and added Auburn transfer Jay Fair. The team also added Xavier Jordan, ESPN’s No. 80 recruit for 2024. Mississippi State transfer Woody Marks is set to be USC’s lead running back in his final season, after rushing for 1,883 yards for the Bulldogs. Sophomore Quinten Joyner is also back after averaging 6.9 yards per carry last fall. Joyner and redshirt freshman A’Marion Peterson both will be factors beyond 2024. Junior tight end Lake McRee had 26 receptions last season, and USC signed top-100 recruit Walter Matthews and ESPN 300 selection Joey Olsen.
2024 future QB power ranking: 8
2023 future offense power ranking: 11
Scouting the Tigers: LSU’s offense produced two of the top six picks in the NFL draft — quarterback Jayden Daniels at No. 2, wide receiver Malik Nabers at No. 6 — and three of the top 23 (wideout Brian Thomas Jr.). The program has shifted to being more offense-centric, a philosophy that should be maintained under coach Brian Kelly. The Tigers lose some significant pieces and coordinator Mike Denbrock to Notre Dame, but they have continuity with Joe Sloan as the play-caller, and enough talent to keep producing. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier finally gets his chance to lead the offense. After passing for 395 yards and three scores in a bowl win over Wisconsin, Nussmeier could be LSU’s QB1 through 2025. The team has options, though, as Vanderbilt transfer AJ Swann is a capable backup, and recruiting has surged with redshirt freshman Rickie Collins, incoming freshman Colin Hurley and 2025 commit Bryce Underwood, ESPN’s No. 2 recruit in the class. LSU has a great tradition at running back and needs more from the group, which returns reserves Josh Williams and Kaleb Jackson. The team added ESPN 300 recruit Caden Durham in the 2024 class, and has a 2025 commitment from Harlem Berry, ESPN’s top running back and No. 20 overall prospect in the class.
The receiver room will look different without Nabers and Thomas, although LSU brings back senior Kyren Lacy, who averaged 18.6 yards per catch with seven touchdowns last fall and is poised for a breakout season. The Tigers also added transfers Zavion Thomas (Mississippi State) and CJ Daniels (Liberty, second-team All-Conference USA), who will be immediate factors. Thomas has junior eligibility, and the group’s long-term outlook could hinge on younger players like redshirt freshman Kyle Parker and sophomore Aaron Anderson. LSU also has a 2025 commitment from wideout Dakorien Moore, ESPN’s No. 3 prospect in the class. The Tigers offensive line projects as one of the nation’s best in 2024, as tackles Will Campbell and Emery Jones Jr. are both top NFL prospects. LSU also brings back veteran interior linemen Garrett Dellinger and Miles Frazier. All four players could be gone in 2025, so the development of young center DJ Chester and others, such as redshirt freshman tackle Tyree Adams, will be important. LSU signed two ESPN 300 linemen in the 2024 class and has 2025 commitments from two others. Junior tight end Mason Taylor finished third on the team with 36 receptions last fall and leads a group that includes sophomores Mac Markway and Ka’Morreun Pimpton. Trey’Dez Green, an ESPN top 100 recruit in 2025, is committed to the Tigers.
2024 future QB power ranking: 12
2023 future offense power ranking: 6
Scouting the Vols: In Heupel’s three seasons as coach, Tennessee ranks third nationally in scoring (39.1 ppg), fourth in yards per game (482.8) and eighth in offensive efficiency. The Vols have surged behind different quarterbacks and have shown they can overcome key NFL losses. The much-anticipated Nico Iamaleava era is here as the redshirt freshman quarterback, the No. 23 overall recruit in 2023, will lead Tennessee’s offense at least through 2025. Predecessors Hendon Hooker and Joe Milton III had dual-threat ability, but Iamaleava gives Tennessee’s offense a different QB run element. There’s not much proven depth behind Iamaleava, but Tennessee adds Jake Merklinger, an ESPN 300 recruit in the 2024 class, and has a commitment from ESPN top-60 national prospect George MacIntyre for 2025. Junior Squirrel White (67 receptions, 803 yards in 2023) leads a receiving corps with some familiar faces and some new ones. Bru McCoy is back for his sixth college season, as he comes off of a dislocated and fractured ankle. Senior Dont’e Thornton Jr. adds depth after averaging 17.2 yards per catch in 2023, as does redshirt sophomore Chas Nimrod. The Vols added transfer Chris Brazell II, who led Tulane with 44 receptions and 711 receiving yards last season, and has three years of eligibility left. Mike Matthews, ESPN’s No. 23 overall recruit, headlined Tennessee’s 2024 class and went through spring practice.
Offensive line is an area to watch as Tennessee seeks greater consistency. The group got a boost when seniors Cooper Mays, John Campbell Jr. and Javontez Spraggins all returned for their final seasons. The Vols landed a significant transfer in LSU tackle Lance Heard, ESPN’s No. 51 recruit in the 2023 class. Senior Andrej Karic, a Texas transfer who started before missing the second half of 2023 with injury, is back alongside veteran Jackson Lampley and others. The development of non-seniors such as redshirt freshman Vysen Lang and Sham Umarov will be important, and Tennessee signed three ESPN 300 linemen in the 2024 class. Junior running back Dylan Sampson is set to step in for fourth-round NFL draft pick Jaylen Wright. Sophomores Cameron Seldon and Khalifa Keith add insurance, and ESPN 300 recruit Peyton Lewis enters the fold. Notre Dame transfer Holden Staes fills a need at tight end, where Tennessee also added Alabama transfer Miles Kitselman.
2024 future QB power ranking: 11
2023 future offense power ranking: 7
Scouting the Sooners: Oklahoma enters the SEC with some big-picture questions looming about coach Brent Venables and the direction of the program. However, the offense still projects well, despite the departures of key players, including quarterback Dillon Gabriel to Oregon, and a coordinator change from Lebby to Seth Littrell. The quarterback transition went smoother than most, as Gabriel gave the reins to Jackson Arnold, the former No. 3 overall recruit now set to lead OU’s offense through at least 2025. Oklahoma got some short-term insurance in Casey Thompson, the former Texas, Nebraska and Florida Atlantic starter who has battled injuries. Beyond Arnold, the post-2024 plan includes two incoming freshmen (Michael Hawkins, Brendan Zurbrugg) and 2025 commit Kevin Sperry, a top-150 prospect. The Sooners lose leading receiver Drake Stoops but bring back a strong collection of targets, including sophomore Nic Anderson, senior Jalil Farooq, senior Andrel Anthony and junior Jayden Gibson. They also added a potentially significant transfer in Purdue’s Deion Burks, who had 629 yards and seven touchdowns last fall. OU also has plenty of multiyear options like Anderson, Gibson and junior Brenen Thompson. The team also signed two ESPN 300 wide receivers for 2024 and has three committed for 2025.
Offensive line play has generally been strong under veteran assistant Bill Bedenbaugh, but there are questions about an overhauled, transfer-heavy group in 2025. OU brought in transfers Geirean Hatchett (Washington), Michael Tarquin (USC), Febechi Nwaiwu (North Texas) and Branson Hickman (SMU) to help offset production lost to the draft and portal. Junior tackle Jacob Sexton is in line to start, along with junior Troy Everett on the interior. But OU must fast-track its transfers and develop its next crop of linemen, including freshman Eugene Brooks, a top-150 recruit, and redshirt freshmen Heath Ozaeta and Joshua Bates. Leading rusher Gavin Sawchuk can play through 2026 after logging 744 yards and nine touchdowns last season. He’ll be joined by junior Jovantae Barnes, Tennessee-Martin transfer Sam Franklin and Taylor Tatum, ESPN’s top-rated running back and No. 38 overall recruit for 2024. OU went to the portal for tight ends Jake Roberts (Baylor) and Bauer Sharp (Southeastern Oklahoma), and also added two ESPN 300 recruits in Davon Mitchell and Ivan Carreon.
2024 future QB power ranking: 19
2023 future offense power ranking: 5
Scouting the Wolverines: The defending champs were set to drop in Offense FPR after losing quarterback J.J. McCarthy, running back Blake Corum, guard Zak Zinter and other mainstays from a dominant squad. Michigan’s offense would even be lower in a one-year projection, especially without an obvious successor to McCarthy at quarterback, although players like tight end Colston Loveland and running back Donovan Edwards undoubtedly will help the 2024 offense. Junior Alex Orji, who helped as a changeup running quarterback but did not attempt a pass last fall, could be the immediate solution, as he continues to compete with junior Jayden Denegal and seniors Tyler Warren and Jack Tuttle. The QB outlook is murky now but should clear up soon. Edwards had an underwhelming 2023 season but has the ability to gash defenses, as he showed late in 2022. He should be the focal point of the run game this fall, while fellow senior Kalel Mullings is a solid second option after averaging 6.2 yards per carry. Incoming freshman Jordan Marshall, ESPN’s No. 104 overall recruit in 2024, will be a long-term factor. Loveland, who had 45 receptions for 649 yards last season, is projected as a 2025 first-round draft pick. Senior Max Bredeson thrives as a blocking tight end, while the outlook after this fall likely hinges on incoming freshman Brady Prieskorn, ESPN’s No. 72 recruit in the class.
New U-M coach Sherrone Moore made Michigan’s offensive line into one of the nation’s best. His next challenge is a massive reload for 2024. Although senior Myles Hinton has started games and transfer Josh Priebe was a multiyear starter at Northwestern, Michigan will ask more from veterans Giovanni El-Hadi, Greg Crippen, Jeffrey Persi and Andrew Gentry, as the latter competed for the top right tackle job this spring. Michigan signed two ESPN 300 tackles in the 2024 class, and the team has generally hit on its transfers up front. The wide receiver room also turns over significantly with Roman Wilson and Cornelius Johnson off to the NFL. Sophomore Semaj Morgan will have a bigger role after a 22-catch season, as will senior Tyler Morris. Morgan and fellow sophomore Fredrick Moore could lead the group for multiple seasons, and Michigan brought back Amorion Walker, a wide receiver/defensive back who spent the spring at Ole Miss. The Wolverines likely will add at least one more receiver from the portal.
2024 future QB power ranking: 7
2023 future offense power ranking: 18
Scouting the Rebels: Other than Ohio State and Miami, no team without a new coach had a splashier offseason than Ole Miss, which added key pieces to an already strong roster. The Rebels are set up for a CFP push this season, and would be higher in a one-year projection. The only questions are what the offense will look like after 2024, and whether coach Lane Kiffin is still in The Sip or somewhere else like Florida. Quarterback Jaxson Dart comes off of a career season (3,364 passing yards, 23 touchdowns) and will lead the offense for a final year, before turning things over to Walker Howard, the former ESPN top-50 recruit, or dynamic freshman Austin Simmons. The Rebels lost Judkins to Ohio State but retained senior Ulysses Bentley IV and mined the transfer portal for Logan Diggs (LSU) and Henry Parrish Jr., who started his career at Ole Miss before leading Miami in rushing the past two seasons. There will be turnover in 2025 but the Rebels could turn to junior Matt Jones or more likely 2025 commit Akylin Dear, ESPN’s No. 2 running back and No. 27 overall recruit in the class. Tight end Caden Prieskorn is back for a final season after recording 30 receptions for 449 yards and four touchdowns in 2023. Virginia Tech transfer Dae’Quan Wright, who started seven games for the Hokies last fall, should be the top option in 2025. The Rebels also might go back into the portal.
The receiver spot is loaded, at least in the short term. Ole Miss brings back seniors Tre Harris and Jordan Watkins, who combined for 107 receptions and 1,726 yards last fall. The team also added South Carolina transfer Juice Wells, who had 1,250 yards at James Madison in 2021 and 928 with the Gamecocks in 2022. Deion Smith and Marquis Willis, ESPN’s No. 1 and No. 3 junior college wideouts in the 2024 class, join a group that has promising younger players like sophomores Cayden Lee and Ayden Williams. The Rebels hit the portal hard for offensive linemen and added Diego Pounds (North Carolina), Nate Kalepo (Washington), Julius Buelow (Washington) and Gerquan Scott (Southern Miss). How they fit positionally and with each other will be a key storyline in 2024. Ole Miss also brings back veterans Jeremy James, Caleb Warren, Micah Pettus and Jayden Williams, with the latter two holding junior eligibility. Incoming freshman Kavion Broussard, an ESPN four-star recruit, should help after 2024.
2024 future QB power ranking: 9
2023 future offense power ranking: 17
Scouting the Irish: After making the four-team CFP twice, Notre Dame will expect to contend annually for the 12-team format. The team’s outcome could come down to the offense, specifically quarterback play and the passing game, which hasn’t been at an elite level often enough. Notre Dame ranked No. 7 nationally in scoring last season but struggled against top defenses. The unit now turns to quarterback Riley Leonard, the dual-threat transfer from Duke who had nearly 3,000 pass yards and 700 rushing yards in 2022 before injury limited him last fall. Leonard missed most of the spring with lingering ankle issues, but Notre Dame has options behind him in veteran backup Steve Angeli, dual-threat sophomore Kenny Minchey and true freshman C.J. Carr, ESPN’s No. 36 recruit in the 2024 class, who may be in line to lead the offense after 2024. The Irish are also well stocked at running back with several non-seniors, including Jeremiyah Love, Gi’Bran Payne and Aneyas Williams, who joins top-130 recruit Kedren Young in the class. Tight end should remain an elite group for Notre Dame, which returns senior Mitchell Evans, the team’s receptions leader (29) in 2023. Eli Raridon also will have a significant role through 2025, and Cooper Flanagan started two games as a true freshman last fall. James Flanigan, an ESPN 300 recruit in 2025, is committed to ND.
The offensive line will go through some transition in 2024 after losing tackle Joe Alt, the No. 5 selection in the NFL draft, as well as tackle Blake Fisher (second round) and center Zeke Correll (transferred to NC State). Junior guard Pat Coogan is Notre Dame’s only full-time returning starter, although junior guard Rocco Spindler started 10 games last fall and seniors Tosh Baker and sophomores Ashton Craig and Billy Schrauth have made starts. Freshman tackle Charles Jagusah will be a key long-term piece for a line that should remain a strength. Wide receiver is Notre Dame’s biggest personnel hurdle as production remains low. Junior Jayden Thomas and sophomore Jaden Greathouse combined for 39 receptions and seven touchdowns last season, while sophomore Jordan Faison, a standout lacrosse player for the Irish, provided a surprise spark down the stretch. Transfers Beaux Collins (Clemson) and Kris Mitchell (Florida International) should help this fall, but Notre Dame must build out long-term depth with players like Cam Williams, ESPN’s No. 47 recruit for 2024.
2024 future QB power ranking: 13
2023 future offense power ranking: 10
Scouting the Seminoles: After winning the ACC, FSU is positioned well overall and on offense, where coach Mike Norvell has thrived throughout his career. The Seminoles lose quarterback Jordan Travis and several other standouts, but their continued success in the portal, along with gradual upgrades of positions like wide receiver and offensive line, boosts the long-term outlook. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei’s fascinating college journey will culminate in Tallahassee after stops at Oregon State and Clemson. Uiagalelei is set to lead the offense in 2024, before turning things over to a younger player like incoming freshman Luke Kromenhoek, ESPN’s No. 159 recruit for 2024. FSU’s portal prowess suggests it can land notable quarterbacks even if its own recruits don’t pan out. The QBs will be throwing to a largely new group this season, as top receivers Keon Coleman and Johnny Wilson, and tight end Jaheim Bell are off to the NFL. FSU added transfers Malik Benson (Alabama) and Jalen Brown (LSU) to complement returnees such as senior slot receiver Ja’Khi Douglas and sophomore Hykeem Williams. Senior tight end Kyle Morlock had 19 receptions last year and will lead the group, which brings back veteran reserve Jackson West and adds Landen Thomas, ESPN’s No. 53 recruit in the 2024 class.
Norvell is bullish on FSU’s offensive line outlook, despite some production loss in the short term. The Seminoles return tackle Robert Scott Jr., who started most of the 2020, 2021 and 2022 seasons before an injury-marred 2023. Scott will rejoin fellow seniors Darius Washington, Jeremiah Byers and Keiondre Jones, who all have rotational experience. FSU also went to the portal for senior Richie Leonard IV, who started 14 games at Florida, and Alabama reserve TJ Ferguson. The starting group should be solid in front of Uiagalelei but FSU must develop for beyond 2024, as it adds Jonathan Davis (ESPN’s No. 110 recruit for 2024) and has a 2025 commitment from Solomon Thomas, ESPN’s No. 14 prospect. Senior running backs Lawrance Toafili and Caziah Holmes are quality holdovers who join Alabama transfer Roydell Williams, who rushed for 1,165 yards and 11 touchdowns with the Tide. Freshman Kam Davis, ESPN’s No. 85 recruit in the 2024 class, should contribute in 2025 and beyond.
2024 future QB power ranking: 16
2023 future offense power ranking: 12
Scouting the Lions: Penn State’s offense is resetting in 2024 under new coordinator Andy Kotelnicki, who helped Kansas rise to No. 17 in scoring last fall. Kotelnicki’s creative scheme should help a unit that averaged only 11.4 yards per completion last fall and struggled mightily in losses to Ohio State and Michigan. His first priority is elevating junior quarterback Drew Allar, the top-60 recruit who limited major mistakes last fall but rarely attacked downfield. Allar could lead the offense through 2025 but might need to hold off dual-threat sophomore Beau Pribula. Penn State also has Ethan Grunkemeyer, an ESPN top-80 recruit, entering the mix. Kotelnicki also needs more from a wide receiver group now having to replace KeAndre Lambert-Smith, who transferred to Auburn. PSU returns non-seniors such as Harrison Wallace III and Kaden Saunders, and adds Ohio State transfer Julian Fleming, a former ESPN No. 1 overall recruit in 2020 who never truly broke through in Columbus. The Lions could still add from the portal but need several reliable options to emerge, both in the fall and beyond. Junior Omari Evans has flashed at times, but Penn State’s wideout recruiting has lagged, compared to other positions.
The outlooks are stronger at running back, tight end and offensive line, which seemingly has turned a corner after producing at least three NFL draft picks (Penn State had four) for the first time since 1996. Despite the draft departures, the line returns plenty of experience with junior Drew Shelton, seniors Sal Wormley and JB Nelson and sophomore Olaivavega Ioane. Penn State also added Wisconsin transfer Nolan Rucci, a junior who was an ESPN top-40 recruit in 2021. Along with promising redshirt freshman Anthony Donkoh and a solid group of reserves, which includes J’Ven Williams and Alex Birchmeier, both top-80 recruits in 2023, Penn State has more than enough depth to sustain through 2026. The team’s incoming recruiting class included ESPN’s top-rated center (Cooper Cousins) and Nos. 3 and 4 guards (Liam Andrews, Donovan Harbour). Penn State returns one of the nation’s best running back tandems in juniors Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton. Even if both depart in 2025, the team has some intriguing young options like freshmen Quinton Martin Jr., an ESPN top 100 recruit, and Cam Wallace. PSU has a 2025 commitment from Alvin Henderson, ESPN’s No. 4 running back in the class. Tight end Tyler Warren (34 receptions, seven touchdowns in 2023) is back for a final season, and leads a group also including junior Khalil Dinkins and freshman Andrew Rappleyea.
2024 future QB power ranking: 21
2023 future offense power ranking: 25
Scouting the Mustangs: SMU ranks fourth nationally in scoring offense since 2018, trailing only Alabama, Ohio State and Oklahoma, and has maintained its production under two coaches (Sonny Dykes and Rhett Lashlee). The Mustangs are entering a more difficult league in the ACC, but they do so with a returning starter at quarterback (Preston Stone), other key holdovers and several potential impact transfers. Stone, a junior, passed for 3,197 yards and 28 touchdowns last fall, and could lead the offense through 2025. The Mustangs have a capable backup in sophomore Kevin Jennings, who stepped in for Stone in the 2023 AAC title game win over Tulane. Redshirt freshman Keldric Luster and 2025 commitment Keelon Russell, ESPN’s No. 81 recruit in the class, should solidify the position long term. Wide receiver should remain a strength. Senior Jake Bailey is back after a 42-catch season and will join classmates Romello Brinson, Moochie Dixon and Key’Shawn Smith. Junior Jordan Hudson will be a factor through 2025 following 30 receptions and seven touchdowns last fall. SMU also added transfers Ashton Cozart (Oregon) and Brashard Smith (Miami), with Cozart retaining four years of eligibility. Daylon Singleton, an ESPN 300 wideout recruit in 2025, is committed.
The run game is in good shape with senior Jaylan Knighton and juniors LJ Johnson Jr. and Camar Wheaton, who combined for 1,731 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns last fall. SMU will need to address 2025 but has some time. SMU’s offensive line will have a mostly new look, although versatile senior Justin Osborne is back. Osborne, who has started in each of the past four seasons at guard or tackle, is set to step in at center. Sophomore left tackle PJ Williams, who started four games last season, is set to remain on the edge, and veteran Jakai Clark brings starting experience to the line. SMU also was very aggressive in the portal with Savion Byrd and Nate Anderson from Oklahoma, Andrew Chamblee and Paris Patterson from Arkansas, and Qae’shon Sapp from East Carolina. Chamblee has three years of eligibility left and will be a multiyear option for SMU, along with several others on this list. Junior tight end RJ Maryland, who had 518 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in 2023, can play through 2025, while sophomore Adam Moore and redshirt freshman Tripp Riordan add depth.
2024 future QB power ranking: 14
2023 future offense power ranking: 15
Scouting the Utes: After ranking 13th nationally in scoring from 2018 to 2022, Utah’s offense backslid in points and production during an injury-marred 2023 season. The good news is quarterback Cameron Rising returns with a seemingly healthy knee after getting through spring practice with no setbacks. Rising led Utah to Pac-12 titles in 2021 and 2022 and will provide the offense with both passing and running ability, and tremendous understanding of coordinator Andy Ludwig’s scheme. The Utes lost Nate Johnson to Vanderbilt but brought back sophomore Brandon Rose and freshman Isaac Wilson, who will compete to back up Rising this season and replace him for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. Wyatt Becker, an ESPN 300 recruit in the 2025 class, is committed to Utah, which also just added former Washington and Cal Poly quarterback Sam Huard in the portal. Top rusher Ja’Quinden Jackson transferred to Arkansas but Utah brings back production in junior Jaylon Glover and senior Micah Bernard, who started 12 games from 2021 to 2022 before missing all but one contest last fall because of injury. Redshirt freshman Mike Mitchell and sophomore Dijon Stanley will play behind Bernard and Glover this fall but will factor into the 2025 and 2026 outlooks. Rising’s return is the big story, but tight end Brant Kuithe’s comeback from injury could be almost as valuable. Kuithe had 104 receptions and 16 touchdowns from 2019 to 2021. Junior Landen King and UCLA transfer Carsen Ryan provide additional options.
Utah returns two offensive line starters in sophomore tackle Spencer Fano and junior guard Michael Mokofisi, who can help sustain the group beyond 2024. Junior Jaren Kump has starting experience at center and could reclaim the job following Koli Faaiu’s transfer to Texas A&M. Senior Johnny Maea is another candidate to start after missing all but one game last season with injury. Junior Tanoa Togiai and redshirt freshman Caleb Lomu are both candidates to start in 2024 and will help solidify the line in future years. Junior tackle Zereoue Williams is another player coming off of an injury who could help for multiple seasons. Isaiah Garcia, ESPN’s No. 12 tackle and No. 114 overall recruit, headlined Utah’s 2024 class. Wide receiver’s should be more of a short-term strength as USC transfer Dorian Singer, who had 1,105 receiving yards on 66 receptions for Arizona in 2022, joins fellow seniors Money Parks, Mycah Pittman and Munir McClain. There’s also depth building with players like redshirt freshman Daidren Zipperer, Washington transfer Taeshaun Lyons and incoming freshman David Washington.
2024 future QB power ranking: 20
2023 future offense power ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Wildcats: When visiting K-State this spring, I sensed both curiosity about the offense’s transition for the 2024 season and also excitement for what it can become going forward. Quarterback Will Howard and coordinator Collin Klein both will be missed in the Little Apple, but the unit’s future could be even brighter in the years ahead. Avery Johnson will be one of the nation’s most electric running quarterbacks. If he can complement those skills with refined passing ability, Kansas State should have one of the Big 12’s top offenses the next few seasons. Johnson can play through 2026. The team has some options behind Johnson in sophomore Jacob Knuth, freshman Blake Barnett and 2025 commit Dillon Duff. K-State’s offensive line is the other short-term curiosity as All-America guard Cooper Beebe and others depart. The Wildcats return senior interior lineman Hadley Panzer, a two-year starter at guard who could line up at center this fall. Senior Carver Willis started seven games at right tackle in 2023, while North Dakota transfer Easton Kilty brings plenty of experience to the other tackle spot. Senior Taylor Poitier has been a valuable rotational piece who should get a chance to start. The plan beyond 2024 will include non-seniors like Sam Hecht, Andrew Leingang and John Pastore. Two of the team’s highest-rated 2024 recruits are linemen in Gus Hawkins and Navarro Schunke.
The run game will remain a strength with versatile junior back DJ Giddens, who rushed for 1,226 yards and 10 touchdowns and added 29 receptions last fall. Colorado transfer Dylan Edwards, a one-time Kansas State recruit, joins a group that includes redshirt freshman Joe Jackson and incoming freshman DeVon Rice. Standout tight end Ben Sinnott will be missed, as sophomore Garrett Oakley (11 receptions in 2023) steps in along with others, including Wagner transfer Justin Wolf. Kansas State is optimistic about young receivers like Jayce Brown and Keagan Johnson, who both can play multiple seasons. The team also added Penn State transfer Dante Cephas, a first-team All-MAC selection at Kent State in 2022, and returns senior Jadon Jackson. The group’s depth will depend on the development of redshirt freshman Tre Spivey, sophomore Sterling Lockett, four-star incoming freshman Trae Davis and others.
2024 future QB power ranking: 18
2023 future offense power ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Hurricanes: Miami is the ultimate FPR conundrum, a program that piles up talent like a national contender but rarely performs like one when the games begin. Can the Canes be trusted? We should find out this fall after a very impressive winter and spring, especially on offense. Miami brought in the nation’s top offensive backfield transfer tandem in quarterback Cameron Ward (Washington State) and running back Damien Martinez (Oregon State). Although the Canes likely get both for only one year (Martinez could play through 2025), they should boost an offense that finished 38th nationally in scoring and 44th in rushing last fall. Miami will need to build depth behind Ward with sophomore Emory Williams and junior Reese Poffenbarger, a transfer from Albany who had 5,969 passing yards and 56 touchdowns in two seasons. Miami lost leading rusher Henry Parrish Jr. to the portal but brings back sophomore Mark Fletcher Jr. (514 rushing yards, five touchdowns in 2023) as a nice complement to Martinez. Sophomore Ajay Allen also should be in the mix alongside 230-pound freshman Elija Lofton, who practiced at both tight end and running back this spring. The tight end group needs junior Elijah Arroyo to stay healthy or other emerging talents, like sophomore Riley Williams or Lofton. Miami also has 2025 commitments from ESPN 300 tight ends Luka Gilbert and Brock Schott.
The Hurricanes return an experienced and productive wide receiver tandem led by Xavier Restrepo, a first-team All-ACC selection who set a team record with 85 receptions last season and recorded only the sixth 1,000-yard receiving season in Miami history. Restrepo is joined by fellow senior Jacolby George, who had 57 receptions for 864 yards and a team-high eight touchdowns in 2023. The team also picked up a big transfer addition in Sam Brown, who had 62 receptions for 815 yards at Houston last season. Sophomore Isaiah Horton will be a factor this fall and beyond, along with sophomore Ray Ray Joseph. Miami brings in two of ESPN’s top 10 wide receiver recruits in Joshisa Trader and Ny Carr. The offensive line should always be a strength under coach Mario Cristobal, and Miami returns key pieces like junior tackle Jalen Rivers, junior guard Anez Cooper and sophomore guard Francis Mauigoa. Indiana transfer Zach Carpenter brings 25 career starts to the center spot. Redshirt freshman Samson Okunlola had a strong spring and could secure a tackle or guard spot for multiple seasons. The group has depth with 6-foot-9, 340-pound Markel Bell, ESPN’s top-rated junior college tackle.
2024 future QB power ranking: 17
2023 future offense power ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Tigers: An 11-win season capped by a Cotton Bowl title and a No. 8 finish might be just the beginning for Missouri under coach Eliah Drinkwitz. Defense largely propelled the Tigers in 2023, but the offense also turned a corner behind quarterback Brady Cook, who returns for his senior season and will again throw to one of the nation’s top wide receivers in Luther Burden III. Missouri must replace Cody Schrader, the SEC’s rushing leader, offensive lineman Javon Foster and others. But Cook and Burden provide a solid foundation for 2024, and Missouri picked up key transfers like running back Marcus Carroll (Georgia State) and linemen Marcus Bryant (SMU) and Caden Green (Oklahoma). Missouri’s post-Cook plan at quarterback will be interesting as former Notre Dame starter Drew Pyne — who spent last season at Arizona State — is transferring in with multiple years of eligibility. The team added three-star recruit Aidan Glover and has a 2025 commitment from Matt Zollers, an ESPN top-100 prospect. Carroll, a first-team All-Sun Belt selection, and Appalachian State transfer Nate Noel should help offset Schrader’s production. The post-2024 running back plan should involve redshirt freshman Jamal Roberts and incoming freshman Kewan Lacy. Missouri also could go back into the portal. Sophomore Brett Norfleet projects as the multiyear answer at tight end after 18 receptions, three of them for touchdowns, in 2023. Senior Tyler Stephens will contribute this fall and sophomore Jordon Harris in the coming years.
The line returns starting right guard Cam’Ron Johnson, who will depart after 2024 along with Bryant, a first-team All-AAC tackle at SMU. Center Connor Tollison and right tackle Armand Membou both return after starting throughout last season, and both can play through 2025. Green, rated No. 55 in the 2023 recruiting class, will be in the post-2024 plans along with redshirt freshmen Logan Reichert, a possible starter at guard, and tackle Brandon Solis. Missouri also has a 2025 commitment from Jack Lange, ESPN’s No. 129 recruit. Burden technically can play through 2025 but is expected to depart for the NFL after the season. Theo Wease Jr. and Mookie Cooper, who combined for 85 receptions and 1,129 yards last fall, are both seniors. The development of sophomore Marquis Johnson, junior Mekhi Miller and others will be key. Missouri’s highest-rated 2024 offensive recruits are four-star receivers Courtney Crutchfield and James Madison II.
2024 future QB power ranking: 15
2023 future offense power ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Jayhawks: After a nine-win season in 2023, Kansas has its sights set on a Big 12 title push. To do so, the Jayhawks must ride an offense featuring plenty of familiar names but bringing in a new play-caller in Jeff Grimes from Baylor. The unit has more questions after 2023, while the major short-term unknown is the health of quarterback Jalon Daniels, limited to just three games last fall because of a back injury. When healthy, Daniels is one of the nation’s most explosive quarterbacks and can propel a Jayhawks offense that returns veteran running backs Devin Neal and Daniel Hishaw Jr., as well as an excellent receiving corps of seniors Lawrence Arnold, Quentin Skinner and Luke Grimm. A Daniels-led offense could be one of the nation’s best this fall, although Kansas will have a lot to replace in 2025 and 2026. Redshirt freshman quarterback Cole Ballard saw time last season and could be in line to replace Daniels. Sophomore Mikey Pauley and incoming freshman Isaiah Marshall, a dynamic dual threat are in the mix, and Kansas has a 2025 commitment from four-star prospect David McComb. Hishaw can play through 2025, and Sevion Morrison appeared in five games last fall. Three-star recruit Harry Stewart III will likely be a factor. Veteran tight end Jared Casey returns and Kansas added DeShawn Hanika, an experienced transfer from Iowa State. But others will need to emerge after 2024. Four-star tight end recruit Jaden Hamm headlined KU’s 2023 class.
Grimes cut his teeth developing strong offensive lines and, along with new line coach Daryl Agpalsa, should be able to upgrade a group that returns familiar names like senior tackle Bryce Cabeldue and Michael Ford Jr., who can start at center or guard. Juniors Kobe Baynes and Nolan Gorczyca are back, and the Jayhawks also added Darrell Simmons Jr., a 38-game starter at Iowa State, and center Shane Bumgardner from Division II Tiffin. Junior Logan Brown and redshirt freshman Calvin Clements will be multiyear factors at tackle. The development of non-senior wide receivers will be important this fall, including junior Doug Emilien and redshirt freshman Keaton Kubecka. Kansas’ work in both recruiting and the portal at receiver will be important to monitor.
2024 future QB power ranking: 10
2023 future offense power ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Wildcats: Arizona is a fascinating offense to project in the FPR format. The Wildcats finished 18th nationally in scoring last season and return one of the nation’s best passing combinations in sophomore quarterback Noah Fifita (2,869 yards, 25 touchdowns) and junior wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan (1,402 receiving yards, 90 receptions, 10 touchdowns). Fisch left for Washington but didn’t take many immediate contributors with him. Arizona also will join the Big 12 with a new staff and the potential to backslide, especially after 2024. The big key will be keeping Fifita multiple seasons, even if McMillan heads to the NFL, as expected, in 2025. Redshirt freshman quarterback Brayden Dorman appears all in with coach Brent Brennan after initially entering the portal amid the coaching change. Sophomore Cole Tannenbaum is another multiyear option, and San Jose State transfer Anthony Garcia followed Brennan to Tucson. Senior wideout Montana Lemonious-Craig will rejoin McMillan after a 28-catch season. Old Dominion transfer Reymello Murphy arrives after a 500-yard season in 2023, but Arizona must build out its depth for 2025 and 2026 with sophomores Malachi Riley and AJ Jones. Juniors Keyan Burnett and Roberto Miranda both are back, and Sam Olson transfers in from San Jose State. But Arizona will look for others as it replaces record-setting tight end Tanner McLachlan.
The offensive line projects as a strength, as four starters return, including NFL prospect Jonah Savaiinaea at tackle. Of the returners, only Josh Baker has senior eligibility, and Raymond Pulido and Wendell Moe are just sophomores. Pulido started at guard in 2023 but could shift to left tackle, where Arizona is replacing NFL first-round draft pick Jordan Morgan. Arizona added four offensive line transfers, including San Jose State’s Ryan Stewart and Oregon’s Michael Wooten. Junior Leif Magnuson should be in the rotation through 2025, and Arizona has time to develop more depth. There’s significant turnover at running back, where Arizona will turn to junior Rayshon Luke and San Jose State transfer Quali Conley, who had 842 rushing yards and nine touchdowns in 2023. Conley is a senior, so Luke and redshirt freshman Brandon Johnson could lead the group in 2025. Jordan Washington, Arizona’s lone ESPN 300 recruit in the 2024 class, eventually followed Fisch to Washington. If Brennan can keep the group together, Arizona’s offense should continue to thrive.
2024 future QB power ranking: Not ranked
2023 future offense power ranking: 23
Scouting the Hilltoppers: The annual offensive numbers coming from the Hilltoppers are too impressive to ignore. Since the 2021 season, WKU ranks 10th nationally in scoring, No. 1 in passing and No. 5 in total offense. The offense has surged behind quarterbacks Bailey Zappe and Austin Reed, and while transition looms at QB, the Hilltoppers are in good shape with sophomore Caden Veltkamp and TJ Finley, the Texas State transfer who had a team-record 3,439 passing yards and 24 touchdowns in 2023. Finley, who spent time at LSU and Auburn early in his career, has two years of eligibility left. Veltkamp earned offensive MVP honors in Western Kentucky’s come-from-behind bowl win over Old Dominion, where he had 383 passing yards and five touchdowns, while adding 53 rushing yards. Sophomore Turner Helton, nephew of WKU coach Tyson Helton and son of Georgia Southern coach Clay Helton, also is in the mix. Top wide receiver Malachi Corley went in the third round of the NFL draft, but WKU returns senior Dalvin Smith and sophomore Easton Messer, who combined for 92 catches, 997 yards and 10 touchdowns last fall. Senior Michael Mathison, who missed all of last season with injury after starting nine games and recording 52 receptions in 2022, is back. WKU added Alabama State transfer Kisean Johnson, a senior, but will look to develop non-seniors like sophomores K.D. Hutchinson and Moussa Barry.
Senior Elijah Young returns after leading WKU in rushing last fall (474 yards). He will be joined by Bowling Green transfer Ta’Ron Keith, another senior. Junior L.T. Sanders, who had 31 carries in 2023, and sophomore Corey Landers both could be in the post-2024 plans. Junior River Helms, who had 22 receptions and three touchdowns last fall, is set to lead the tight ends through 2025. The Hilltoppers also have senior Trevor Borland and junior C.J. Kiss, a transfer from Division II Notre Dame College who was injured last season. WKU returns three linemen who started games last season in junior tackle Marshall Jackson, senior guard Quantavious Leslie and junior guard Wesley Horton. The team added Louisiana-Monroe transfer Stacey Wilkins, a three-year starter who began his career at Oklahoma, and Troy transfer Blake Austin, who started 11 games (10 at guard) last fall. Sophomore Evan Wibberley had a strong spring and will help lead line beyond 2024 with Jackson, Horton and others.
2024 future QB power ranking: Not ranked
2023 future offense power ranking: Not ranked
Scouting the Tigers: I try to own up to mistakes in FPR, and Memphis’ offense has earned more respect than this space has provided over the years. In the past decade, Memphis ranks fourth nationally in scoring, trailing only Oklahoma, Ohio State and Alabama. The Tigers are 12th since 2019, as coach Ryan Silverfield has maintained the prowess from predecessors Mike Norvell and Justin Fuente. Although Memphis faces some questions after 2024, when record-setting quarterback Seth Henigan departs, the program has earned the benefit of the doubt. The key this fall is to develop a capable backup to Henigan — redshirt freshman Arrington Maiden, junior Cade Cunningham and redshirt freshman Harris Boyd are in the mix, but none attempted a pass last season — or identify a solution through the portal. Memphis returns an excellent tandem of senior wide receivers in Roc Taylor and Demeer Blankumsee, who combined for 1,984 yards on 122 receptions with 11 touchdowns last season. Along with senior Koby Drake (33 receptions, 352 yards in 2023), the Tigers are set up well in the short term but will need several options to emerge for 2025 and 2026. Memphis added transfers Ja’Koby Banks (Houston) and Jyaire Shorter (Auburn), and three-star recruit Keonde Henry headlined the team’s 2024 class.
Memphis made a strong offseason push for linemen in the portal and landed Keydrell Lewis (Louisiana-Monroe), Trent Holler (Marshall), Izaiah Reed (Louisville), Jaylen Nichols (South Carolina) and Chris Adams (Old Dominion), who had initially committed to Washington. Both Adams and Reed have multiple years of eligibility left, while the others are seniors. The Tigers return Xavier Hill, a second-team All-AAC selection in 2022 who can play tackle and guard, while three-year starter Jonah Gambill likely will slide into the center spot for his final season. Jonathan Young, ESPN’s No. 5 junior college tackle prospect for 2024, has joined the team. Memphis loses top rusher Blake Watson but returns backup Sutton Smith (305 rushing yards, two touchdowns). The team went to the portal for South Carolina transfer Mario Anderson, who had 707 rushing yards last season, and UMass transfer Greg Desrosiers Jr. Smith and Desrosiers both can play through 2025. Memphis gets top tight end Anthony Lamdphere (29 receptions, three touchdowns) for one more year. Juniors Brendan Doyle and Jamauri Chislom will become bigger factors in 2025.
2024 future QB power ranking: 25
2023 future offense power ranking: 24
Scouting the Cardinals: Louisville reached the 2023 ACC title game primarily because of its defense, while the team’s offense ended coach Jeff Brohm’s first season on a down note. But Brohm’s track record on offense can’t be ignored, especially with Louisville’s ability to mine the portal. Brohm added transfers to every offensive position, including quarterback, where veteran Tyler Shough is set to lead the offense this fall. Shough has struggled with injuries but has the arm and schematic knowledge to thrive under Brohm. Sophomore Brady Allen had only one pass attempt last year but is set to back up Shough, while redshirt freshman Pierce Clarkson could be the team’s quarterback of the future. Louisville also added a three-star recruit this year (Deuce Adams) and has another committed for 2025 (Mason Mims). The Cardinals will miss NFL departure Jamari Thrash at wide receiver but hit the portal for key additions Caullin Lacy (South Alabama), Ja’Corey Brooks (Alabama) and Antonio Meeks (Tuskegee). Junior Chris Bell is back after finishing second on the team in both receptions (29) and receiving yards (402), and senior Jadon Thompson brings experience. The post-2024 outlook will hinge on non-seniors like Jimmy Calloway, Cataurus Hicks and Jahlil McClain.
The Cardinals need more from an offensive line going through significant turnover in 2024. Standout center Bryan Hudson and others are gone, and Louisville added six line transfers in the winter. Junior Pete Nygra, a transfer from Northern Illinois, is pegged to step in at center, while Texas Tech transfer Monroe Mills and Yale transfer Jonathan Mendoza should step in at the tackle spots. Louisville returns a lot of experience at guard with senior Michael Gonzalez, who has made 17 starts over the past two seasons, fellow seniors Renato Brown and Lance Robinson, and junior Austin Collins, who started the final five games last season after Brown was injured. The post-2024 outlook will be shaped by players like Nygra, redshirt freshman Madden Sanker, an ESPN top-135 recruit in 2023, and junior Trevonte Sylvester. Louisville lost two running backs to the NFL but added Miami transfer Donald Chaney Jr., who joins junior Maurice Turner and others. The team’s two highest-rated 2024 recruits are running backs (Isaac Brown, Duke Watson). San Diego State transfer Mark Redman, a second-team All-Mountain West selection in 2023, will step in at tight end. Louisville also has a multiyear option in sophomore Jaleel Skinner, and added Kentucky transfer Izayah Cummings for depth.
2024 future QB power ranking: 22
2023 future offense power ranking: 8
Scouting the Huskies: The final FPR spot is always good for debate and I considered several offenses, including Texas A&M, Oklahoma State, South Florida, TCU, North Carolina and Liberty. Washington certainly is the wildest of wild cards, at least in the short term, as the 2024 offense will be almost entirely new players after losing seven to the NFL draft (six in the first three rounds) and others to the portal. Fisch is the reason for Washington’s inclusion. He took an Arizona program that had bottomed out and got the Wildcats to 10 wins last fall, behind an offense that averaged 34.6 points and 6.8 yards per play. Washington wouldn’t make a one-year projection but by Year 2, the personnel will be stable enough. Quarterbacks should remain a strength for the Huskies under Fisch, who retained Mississippi State transfer Will Rogers for 2024 and brought over Demond Williams Jr. from Arizona. Rogers set SEC and team records at Mississippi State, while thriving in the Air Raid offense. Williams, an ESPN 300 recruit who signed with Arizona before transferring, had an impressive first spring and will be in line to start in 2025, if not sooner. ESPN three-star recruit Dash Beierly is committed for 2025. Arizona transfer Jonah Coleman, a junior who led the Wildcats with 871 rushing yards and five scores in 2023, could lead Washington’s running backs through 2025. Senior Cameron Davis, who had 13 rushing touchdowns in 2022 before missing last fall with injury, provides a strong short-term option. Washington also added Arizona transfer Jordan Washington, an ESPN 300 recruit.
A Husky offensive line that won the 2023 Joe Moore Award as the nation’s best front completely turns over for 2024. Washington made a portal push but missed on some of its top targets, while still adding transfers like Enokk Vimahi (Ohio State), Logan Sagapolu (Miami) and Michael Watkins (Arizona) to complement sophomore Drew Azzopardi, who transferred from San Diego State before the coaching change and stood out this spring at right tackle. Azzopardi is one of several multiyear options, including sophomore center Landen Hatchett, junior guard Gaard Memmelaar and redshirt freshmen tackles Elishah Jackett and Soane Faasolo. Tackle Paki Finau, a top-200 recruit, headlined Washington’s 2024 class. The nation’s best receiver room will look different, although senior Giles Jackson is back alongside sophomore Denzel Boston and several intriguing freshmen. Washington added Cal transfer Jeremiah Hunter, a senior with 23 career starts and 2,056 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, as well as two Arizona transfers in Kevin Green Jr. and Audric Harris. The team has a 2025 commitment from ESPN four-star recruit Raiden Vines-Bright. Nevada transfer Keleki Latu adds to a tight end group returning senior Quentin Moore and sophomore Ryan Otton.