With Fernando Mendoza now headed to the NFL, the race to become the best quarterback in college football is officially open. Several contenders have the talent and production to claim that title entering the 2026 season, but one name continues to rise above the rest in national conversations. Oregon quarterback Dante Moore has become the popular pick after an impressive first season as the starter in Eugene. Moore threw for 3,565 yards, 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions while leading Oregon to two College Football Playoff victories before falling to Indiana in the semifinals. His postseason performance only strengthened the hype. Moore threw for 832 yards and six touchdowns during Oregon’s playoff run while completing nearly 70% of his passes. That dominance led On3’s J.D. PicKell to confidently declare Moore the best quarterback in college football entering 2026. “Dante Moore at Oregon is going to be the best quarterback in the sport,” PicKell said. “Again, don’t overthink it.…