- Backup QBs are the big 2026 storyline — think Ole Miss’ 2025 Cinderella run with Trinidad Chambliss — and several teams’ CFP and conference hopes now hinge on inexperienced replacements.
- High-profile swings: Ohio State turned to freshman Luke Fahey after Julian Sayin’s injury, Oregon is juggling Dylan Raiola and Brock Thomas with Dante Moore sidelined, and Michigan benched top recruit Bryce Underwood for Tommy Carr.
- Some backups are thriving and changing seasons — UCLA’s Ty Dieffenbach (6-0), Tennessee’s George MacIntyre (upset of Alabama) and Iowa’s Jeremy Hecklinski have all stepped up — who will be this year’s breakout story?
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