Big Ten quarterbacks ranked for 2026 season
Julian Sayin and Dante Moore lead rankings as publication suggests conference is well-positioned for fourth consecutive national title
USA TODAY Sports has published a comprehensive ranking of the 18 starting quarterbacks in the Big Ten conference for the 2026 season, positioning the league as a dominant force in college football. The assessment suggests that if quarterback performance remains the decisive factor in determining the national champion, the Big Ten is in a prime position to secure a fourth consecutive title, a feat not achieved in the poll era.
The ranking identifies Julian Sayin of Ohio State and Dante Moore of Oregon as the clear top two prospects. Sayin, who recorded 3,610 passing yards and 32 touchdowns last season while averaging 9.2 yards per attempt, faces significant competition for individual recognition from his teammate, wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. Smith is widely regarded as the best pound-for-pound player in the country. Sayin is set to operate under new Ohio State offensive coordinator Arthur Smith in 2026.
Moore, who threw for 30 scores in the 2025 season to lead Oregon to the playoff semifinals, is viewed as a top overall draft prospect. However, the ranking notes he must overcome past struggles against Indiana, where he threw three interceptions in two losses to the Hoosiers. Following these two leaders, Demond Williams Jr. of Washington takes third place, having completed 69.5% of his passes for 3,065 yards and 28 scores last year.
The top five also includes Josh Hoover of Indiana and Jayden Maiava of USC. Hoover transfers from TCU, bringing experience from a high-volume system but also a history of 24 interceptions over the past two years. Maiava, a former UNLV transfer, joins USC with additional transfer help and a top recruiting class, offering an opportunity to climb the rankings if the Trojans return to the playoff picture.
Other notable entries include Nico Iamaleava at UCLA, who will play under new coach Bob Chesney, whose offense at James Madison ranked ninth in points per game last season. Rocco Becht of Penn State is highlighted for his familiarity with Matt Campbell’s scheme, while Bryce Underwood of Michigan is listed at number eight. The ranking underscores the depth of talent across the conference, with young prospects at Washington, Michigan, and Maryland also drawing attention.
