On3 Projects Big 12 QB Starters for 2025: Colorado, UCF, BYU, OSU Stand Out

On3 released its early projections for the 2025 Big 12 starting quarterbacks this week, and while most slots align with spring depth charts, a few signal real intrigue.

Colorado, UCF, BYU, and Oklahoma State each feature new names under center, some with proven track records, and others battling for a breakthrough.

Colorado appears ready to roll with transfer Kaidon Salter, the 6‑1, 190‑pound dual-threat who arrives from Liberty after earning Conference USA MVP honors in 2023. His style offers dynamism in Deion Sanders’ offense and represents a clear shift toward a playmaker under center.

At UCF, the focus shifts to Tayven Jackson, who transferred from Indiana after a respectable stint there and Tennessee before that. Jackson brings mobility and a strong arm to Orlando, giving new coach Scott Frost a defined passer with upside, even as Cam Fancher and others linger in the mix.

BYU’s situation is notably different. On3 projects McCae Hillstead as the starter, the Utah State transfer who hasn’t played since 2023, but offers a storyline that Cougars fans will watch closely. Hillstead steps into the wake of Jake Retzlaff’s departure, with Kalani Sitake’s staff trusting the developmental bet to pay off.

Oklahoma State remains the most open quarterback battle. On3’s pick of Zane Flores shows confidence in the redshirt freshman, but Hauss Hejny and Garrett Rangel are firmly in the mix. The lack of a clear veteran starter signals a true competition heading into fall camp.

These projections signal significant directional shifts in key Big 12 programs. For Colorado and UCF, both newcomers plug immediate experience into the offense. BYU and OSU appear more in flux, with quarterback competitions that could define the trajectories of their 2025 campaigns.