Preseason Quarterback Favorites Fail to Deliver Amid Intense Scrutiny

As of October 4th, 2025, a trend has emerged in college football where highly touted quarterback prospects are struggling to meet the lofty expectations placed upon them. Texas quarterback Arch Manning and Florida's DJ Lagway, both former top-10 national recruits and preseason Heisman Trophy favorites, have failed to match the hype so far this season.

Coaches like Texas' Steve Sarkisian and Florida's Billy Napier are now tasked with helping their star players regain their confidence and focus on the game, rather than the intense public scrutiny they face. Sarkisian noted that the 24/7 media coverage and social media attention have put these young players "on pedestals" before they're ready, leading them to "press" and underperform.

This phenomenon is not new in college football, as "can't-miss" quarterback prospects often fail to live up to their billing. Since 2008, only 11 of the 45 players who finished in the top five of Heisman Trophy voting were former five-star recruits. Coaches emphasize that there are many factors beyond just physical talent that go into making a successful college quarterback.

As Arch Manning, DJ Lagway, and others try to dig themselves out of early-season holes, their coaches will be focused on protecting their mental state and helping them rediscover the joy of playing the game they love.