"Keelon" "Bryce not even close": Football fans debate which 2025 class QB will take the number one spot at the Rivals recruit ranking

The battle for the top quarterback spot in Rivals’ 2025 rankings has sparked discussions among football enthusiasts. A Rivals' Instagram post featuring standout QBs Julian Lewis, Tavien St. Clair, Deuce Knight, Keelon Russell, and Bryce Underwood ignited intense debates.

Fans had mixed reactions:

“Keelon”

Another remarked:

“Bryce not even close.”

Image via Ig@rivalsdotcom

Here is how other fans reacted:

"bryce mother f***ing underwood"

Image via Ig@rivalsdotcom

"Keelon the best one here"

Image via [email protected]

The trio of St. Clair, Underwood, and Russell stands out, each showcasing elite attributes. Among them, Russell is a compelling choice for the top spot. An Alabama commit, Russell combines a smooth throwing motion, dynamic athleticism, and a prototypical quarterback frame. His versatility enables him to thrive in various offensive schemes.

Bryce Underwood, currently committed to Michigan after flipping from LSU, is another frontrunner. Standing at 6'4" and 214 pounds, the Belleville, Michigan native is Rivals' No. 1 overall prospect with a perfect 99 rating.

Michigan secured his commitment with an impressive NIL package, reportedly involving contributions from Barstool Sports' Dave Portnoy and Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison.

Keelon Russell, at 6'3.25" and 182 pounds, holds the No. 2 quarterback ranking and is a five-star Alabama commit. Originally pledged to SMU in September 2023, he flipped to Alabama in June 2024.

Meanwhile, Tavien St. Clair, an Ohio State commit, and Deuce Knight, recently committed to Auburn after flipping from Notre Dame, remain strong contenders. St. Clair, a 6'3.75", 225-pound QB from Ohio, ranks fifth at his position, while Knight, standing at 6'4.5" and 208 pounds, holds the sixth spot.

Keelon Russell: Alabama’s game-changing QB in the class of 2025

On the first day of the early signing period, Alabama secured over 20 commitments for the 2025 recruiting class. Leading the pack is 5-star quarterback Keelon Russell, a pivotal addition with the potential to redefine the Crimson Tide’s future.

Russell flipped his commitment from SMU to Alabama in June during head coach Kalen DeBoer’s first summer in Tuscaloosa. DeBoer lauded Russell’s unique talent in December on National Signing Day.

"Keelon, it’s really cool when you think about the recruiting process with him because you continue to think of it as there’s eyes that we have and feelings that we have when you watch the film that are one thing and it jumps out at you, but I think there’s other details that we saw on the film that when we saw him in person were verified when the coaching staff went out in the spring to see him."

DeBoer emphasized Russell’s impact beyond the field, noting his role in uniting the No. 2-ranked recruiting class.

"He’s helped become a major part of bringing and keeping this class together, which is what you want out of any leader especially these key guys, especially your quarterback."

This season, Russell has excelled at Duncanville High, throwing for over 3,600 yards and 52 touchdowns while completing 70% of his passes. He has also added 252 rushing yards and two scores, proving himself a dynamic and versatile playmaker.