College football luxury players: Where teams have it good - ESPN

Much like in the NFL, college football has a quarterback obsession. So much attention is focused on the QB1s, whether it's for the Heisman Trophy race, the College Football Playoff field or the most desirable draft prospects.

There's nothing wrong with that, and coaches know their ability to contend for championships often hinges on who starts under center. But coaches also are quick to point out that players in other roles are critical to their teams' success and ultimately in constructing championship rosters. These players are truly luxuries, such as a capable backup quarterback, a powerful third-down back or a linebacker who can not only crash on run plays, but also drop back in coverage.

Georgia won back-to-back national titles with a quarterback, Stetson Bennett, who began his career as a walk-on reserve. Michigan's rise since 2020 under coach Jim Harbaugh can be attributed to upgrades at several positions, but perhaps none more than the offensive line. Pass-rush specialists matter. So do pass-catching running backs and elite nickel cornerbacks. Where would Iowa be without Tory Taylor, who inspired the «Punting is Winning» T-shirts that couldn't be more spot-on, given the Hawkeyes' continued struggles on offense?

As college football begins its stretch run for the 2023 season, here's a look at the luxury position players (and groups) around the sport and what makes them successful.

Jump to position:
Backup QB | O-line | All-purpose RB | WR2
WR3 | Situational pass-rusher | Coverage LB
Nickel CB | Punter | YAC back | Late-down back

Jason Bean, Kansas

Noah Fifita, Arizona

Kansas' rise from the depths under coach Lance Leipold is linked in part to Jalon Daniels, the undersized, under-recruited quarterback from California