Arch Manning is currently the favorite to win the Heisman Trophy, and he's a very strong candidate to go first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. Those two things generally indicate that the player is special and that there's no one on their level. To do both is impressive, as not many have won college's most prestigious award and gone first overall.
Manning has to do those things, but he seems poised to at least contend for both. The fact that he's the preseason pick for both indicates that he is that good. However, according to USA Today's staff (Paul Myerberg, Blake Toppmeyer, Eddie Timanus, Jordan Mendoza, and Erick Smith), he's not the best QB in college. He's not even the second-best.
The best would be Cade Klubnik by their rankings, followed by Drew Allar. For Klubnik and Allar, they're two of the best full-time starters from last year, and some others, like Tyler Shough, Shedeur Sanders, and notably Cam Ward, all left for the NFL. By default, they're near the top of the 2025 class.
Manning didn't have as much playing time last year, which may be why he comes in third. "Finally, it’s Manning’s chance to prove true the hype that’s followed this blue-chip quarterback with one of football’s most famous surnames," the staff wrote. "He’s the preseason Heisman favorite. Manning looked the part of budding star with a lofty ceiling in two spot starts and backup opportunities last season. He should be ready to break out in his third season playing for Steve Sarkisian, a deft quarterback developer. Manning’s arm is sharp, and his mobility and size are pluses, although he must improve his processing time."
But the key here is "should be ready to break out." Manning hasn't yet broken out, and there's no guarantee he will. He feels like a sure thing, but there is no such thing in sports. Even though he looked pretty great last year, things can go sideways. He has all the tools and the support, but he has to put it all together. Until then, he can't totally be called the best college quarterback.