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The 3 QBs who could make everyone believe they're Heisman candidates in Week 0

Dec 19, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; NC State Wolfpack quarterback CJ Bailey (11) throws a pass against the Memphis Tigers in the second quarter during the Gasparilla Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Dec 19, 2025; Tampa, FL, USA; NC State Wolfpack quarterback CJ Bailey (11) throws a pass against the Memphis Tigers in the second quarter during the Gasparilla Bowl at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The college football season kicks off on Saturday with the Week 0 slate opening what should be another incredible year. The slate for Week 0 isn't the best group of games, but the return of college football will make up for the lack of drama. Overreactions often are at an all-time high after the Week 0 games, and 3 quarterbacks could capitalize on having the spotlight.

The 3 quarterbacks with a chance to shine in Week 0

CJ Bailey - NC State

NC State's offense was decimated this offseason with Jacarrius Peak, Hollywood Smothers, Noah Rogers, and Terrell Anderson all leaving. While NC State lost a ton of weapons, CJ Bailey is back for another season, and he has all the tools to become a Heisman candidate. Opening the season against Virginia, CJ Bailey could start his season off with a big win, giving him early momentum.

Jayden Maiava - USC

Lincoln Riley has made a tradition out of developing Heisman Trophy winning quarterbacks, and Jayden Maiava will look to add his name to that list. The Trojans open the season against San Jose State, which should allow him to start the season by posting massive numbers. While Tanook Hines and Terrell Anderson may not play, it doesn't matter as the Trojans should easily run away with this game using their trio of freshmen weapons.

Jaden Craig - TCU

While the TCU Horned Frogs lost Josh Hoover to Indiana, Jaden Craig has a chance to make everyone forget all about him. Craig joins North Carolina from Harvard, where he recorded 28 total touchdowns with just 7 interceptions. If North Carolina is still a mess, especially with defensive coordinator Steve Belichick missing the game, Jaden Craig could easily post massive numbers in the season opener and quickly become a name every college football fan knows.

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