It's certainly a bold claim to definitively say the Big 12 has better quarterbacks than the SEC heading into the 2025 season, as both conferences boast intriguing talent at the position. However, a case can be made based on a few key factors:

Experience and Proven Production in the Big 12:

Returning Starters: The Big 12 sees a significant number of experienced quarterbacks returning who have already established themselves as high-level performers within the conference. Names like Rocco Becht (Iowa State), Sam Leavitt (Arizona State), Josh Hoover (TCU), and Jalon Daniels (Kansas) have substantial starting experience and have put up impressive numbers.  
Proven Playmakers: These returning Big 12 quarterbacks have demonstrated their ability to lead offenses and make plays. Becht, for example, has had back-to-back 3,000+ yard seasons. Leavitt led Arizona State to the Big 12 Championship and College Football Playoff. Daniels, when healthy, is considered one of the most dynamic players in the conference.
Intriguing Upside and Transfers in the Big 12:

High-Potential Transfers: The Big 12 has also welcomed talented transfers who could make an immediate impact. Devon Dampier (Utah) is a dual-threat talent who could elevate the Utes' offense.  
Rising Stars: Quarterbacks like Avery Johnson (Kansas State) have shown flashes of brilliance and are expected to take on even bigger roles in 2025, potentially blossoming into top-tier players.  
SEC Quarterbacks - Potential vs. Proven:

Replacing Established Talent: The SEC is seeing some significant departures at quarterback, with players heading to the NFL. While there's exciting young talent, much of it is still unproven as the primary starter.
High-Ceiling but Inexperienced: The SEC boasts quarterbacks with immense potential, such as Arch Manning (Texas) and DJ Lagway (Florida). However, they have limited starting experience at the highest level. Their talent is undeniable, but their consistency and performance over a full season remain to be seen.  
Garrett Nussmeier (LSU): While Nussmeier has high potential and impressive arm talent, consistency has been a point of emphasis for him heading into the 2025 season.
The Argument for the Big 12:

The case for the Big 12 having better quarterbacks in 2025 rests on the balance of proven production and intriguing upside. Several Big 12 quarterbacks have significant starting experience, have already put up strong numbers within the conference, and are expected to be among the best in the nation.

While the SEC undoubtedly has talented quarterbacks with high ceilings, many are either stepping into full-time starting roles for the first time or still need to demonstrate consistent elite performance over an entire season in the demanding SEC landscape.

Therefore, heading into the 2025 season, one could argue that the depth of proven and high-performing quarterbacks in the Big 12 gives them a slight edge over an SEC quarterback room that is brimming with potential but has more question marks regarding consistent, established top-tier play.

It's important to note that this is a subjective comparison, and the actual on-field performances in the 2025 season will ultimately determine which conference boasts the better quarterback play.

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