Ranking each Big 12 starting QB for the 2024 football season
9. Donovan Smith, Houston
Smith has spent his entire collegiate career in the Big 12 as he spent three seasons at Texas Tech before leading Houston鈥檚 transition into the conference last year. Smith had a fine season as the Cougars鈥� starter in 2023 as he amassed 2,801 yards through the air and threw 22 touchdowns while maintaining a 64.5% completion rate. The big 6-foot-5, 235-pound senior also is a capable runner as he racked up 428 yards and an additional six scores on the ground last year. The knocks on Smith are his turnovers as he threw 13 interceptions in 2023, and he also often held on to the ball too long, taking 26 sacks. Offseason shoulder surgery is another factor to weigh when projecting Smith鈥檚 2024 numbers, but he ultimately possesses pro-level talent and could be one of the conference鈥檚 top QBs if he can limit his turnovers.
