Pac-12 Football: Newcomers who’ll have an instant impact in 2022

10. USC: (Transfer), Caleb Williams, QB

If 247sports included transfer players with recruiting rankings, the USC Trojans would not be this low on the list. That said, Caleb Williams was the prize of the portal this side of Quinn Ewers. Though it seemed like a foregone conclusion, Williams would follow Lincoln Riley after his “keep my options open” line after the Sooners’ bowl game.

Williams has the tools to be the next great starting quarterback in Los Angeles. He often flashed at Oklahoma and looked like a freshman at times. Williams should take the next step under Riley as they attempt to restore USC to the nation’s elite.

9. Washington State: (Transfer), Cameron Ward, QB

The story behind Cameron Ward is that he grew into his body while at Incarnate Word. In addition, Ward was not highly recruited because he did not play in a pass-centric offense in high school. After a first year where Ward threw for over 4,500 yards and 47 touchdowns, the West Columbia, Texas native was arguably the best talent in the portal.

Ward comes to Pullman as the most talented quarterback prospect since Ryan Leaf. Some in college football circles believe Ward is a generational talent, and the Cougars get him for at least two seasons.