Big 12 transfer QBs ready to take advantage of new homes
There is a lot of intrigue surrounding quarterbacks that have transferred into the Big 12 this offseason. Both Texas and Oklahoma have new faces behind center, but those two programs aren't the only ones welcoming new signal-callers.
Here are the transfer quarterbacks to look out for in the Big 12 this fall.
TRANSFER QBs: SEC | Big Ten | ACC
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Dillon Gabriel is next in line at OU.
Oklahoma has a well-established run of success at quarterback. Just in recent years, the Sooners have churned out Heisman Trophy winners Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray. Jalen Hurts played one season in Norman, too, and is the starter for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Even with a coaching change, there is no reason for Oklahoma to not have continued success behind center. This year, it will be UCF transfer Dillon Gabriel taking over the reins for the Sooners. Gabriel comes to Norman after throwing for more than 8,000 yards and 70 touchdowns in Orlando.
Gabriel gets the advantage of reuniting with former UFC offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby, one of the better offensive minds in the country. Those two have a plethora of weapons at their disposal, pointing to big things this fall. Look for Gabriel to establish himself as one of the better passers in the nation.
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Adrian Martinez takes over at K-State.
One of the more intriguing incoming transfers in the Big 12 is Kansas State signal-caller Adrian Martinez. Martinez had moments of brilliance at Nebraska, but he also had enough struggles that a change of scenery was needed for both parties. Now, Martinez finds himself on a Kansas State squad that has a chance to make a lot of noise this season.
Martinez is an electric player behind center that can impact the game and make highlight-reel plays with his arm and his legs. The high-risk, high-reward style of play makes him must-watch TV and gives the Wildcats an opportunity to elevate their ceiling on the field.
Head coach Chris Klieman has both Martinez and All-American running back Deuce Vaughn at his disposal, one of the more dangerous backfields in the Big 12. If Martinez can cut back on his turnovers, he has a chance to turn lots of heads throughout the season as the Wildcats make a run in the Big 12.
A fresh start for JT Daniels.
After enrolling a year early out of high school a few years ago, former five-star quarterback JT Daniels is now at his third college. Injuries have played a big role in Daniels transferring from USC to Georgia and then moving from the SEC to West Virginia. Morgantown could be the place where Daniels is finally unlocked.
Daniels has flashed when healthy - but injuries have been the problem. His inability to stay on the field has limited his development as a quarterback on the collegiate level. His health and progression will be interesting to track throughout the Mountaineers' season.
Fortunately, there is some familiarity for Daniels. Former USC offensive coordinator Graham Harrell takes over the same role at West Virginia. The two crossed paths in Los Angeles, and Harrell has gained a reputation as an up-and-coming play caller. That combination has the potential to do big things in Morgantown.
Daniels showcased promise in the season opener against Pitt, throwing two touchdowns and displaying impressive arm talent. It was a solid showing for the WVU signal caller.
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The moment is here for Quinn Ewers
Quinn Ewers is one of the most hyped and highest-rated recruits in the modern era. A five-star prospect out of Southlake Carroll in Dallas, Ewers enrolled a year early at Ohio State. It didn't take long for the talented passer to find a new home after his redshirt freshman season, as he opted to return to the Lone Star State.
Ewers, who was once committed to Tom Herman at Texas, was recently named the starting quarterback for the Longhorns. Expectations for Ewers are high in Austin as he is paired with electrifying weapons Bijan Robinson and Xavier Worthy as they enter their second season in Steve Sarkisian's offense.
Growing pains are expected for Ewers. He has not played a meaningful snap since his high school career and the offensive line in front of him is a work in progress. However, there is no denying many are anxiously awaiting to see how the former No. 1 overall prospect performs at Texas.