🔓2025 Position Previews: Quarterback

The quarterback position has long been a critical piece of the Roadrunners’ offensive identity. With the departure of longtime leader Frank Harris in 2023, the torch was passed to a new generation of quarterbacks. As the 2025 season approaches, UTSA has assembled a deep and talented group under center—led by an established starter and supported by a mix of veteran leadership, promising transfers, and raw freshman talent. Here’s an in-depth look at the players set to lead the offense this fall.

Owen McCown (Redshirt Junior, No. 13)

Owen McCown returns in 2025 as UTSA’s undisputed starting quarterback, fresh off a breakout sophomore season that marked a turning point for the program post-Frank Harris.

After transferring from Colorado in 2023 and starting the Scooters Frisco Bowl for an injured Frank Harris and taking UTSA to its first ever bowl win against Marshall, McCown took command of the offense in 2024, starting all 13 games and throwing for an impressive 3,424 yards and 25 touchdowns. He also added 340 rushing yards and three rushing scores, making him a legitimate dual-threat with his blistering speed.

One of his most memorable performances came against Tulsa, where he shattered a school record with 434 passing yards in a single game. He capped off the year with a dominant Myrtle Beach Bowl win over Coastal Carolina, earning MVP honors thanks to 254 passing yards, a touchdown, and a long rushing score. McCown’s calm demeanor, strong mechanics, and leadership presence have made him a foundational piece of the Roadrunners’ identity. With another year of experience in OC Justin Burke’s system and several returning weapons on offense, expectations are sky-high for what McCown can accomplish in 2025.

Dematrius Davis Jr. (Redshirt Senior, No. 16)

Dematrius Davis Jr. brings valuable experience and depth to UTSA’s quarterback room as a redshirt senior. The former four-star recruit from Houston made headlines coming out of North Shore High School, where he was a Texas high school football legend. While his college career hasn’t followed the headline-making trajectory some expected, Davis has carved out a meaningful role with the Roadrunners as a capable and respected backup. At 5′10″ and 200 pounds, he’s a stocky, mobile quarterback who understands the tempo and flow of college football. While he hasn’t seen extensive action on the field, he’s remained a strong presence in the locker room and on the practice field, serving as a mentor to younger QBs while staying ready to contribute when called upon. His experience with the playbook, poise under pressure, and understanding of game-day preparation make him an important part of the QB depth chart.

Noah Lugo (Redshirt Freshman, No. 10)

Noah Lugo is one of the most intriguing long-term prospects in UTSA’s quarterback group. A redshirt freshman transfer from BYU, Lugo comes to San Antonio with a reputation as a dynamic, dual-threat athlete. At Eaton High School in Haslet, Texas, Lugo racked up over 4,700 total yards and 53 touchdowns across his varsity career, earning recognition as one of the top QBs in North Texas. Though he didn’t see playing time at BYU, his move to UTSA offers him a fresh start in a quarterback-friendly system that values mobility and improvisation. Lugo has good size at 6′2″ and 195 pounds and excels in off-script situations, making plays outside the pocket and stretching defenses with both his arm and legs. While 2025 will likely be a developmental year for him, don’t be surprised if Lugo starts to climb the depth chart—he has the talent to eventually challenge for meaningful snaps, and his skill set aligns perfectly with UTSA’s modern offensive approach.

Max Gerlich (Freshman, No. 12)

Freshman quarterback Max Gerlich is a new addition to the Roadrunners’ roster, bringing with him size, upside, and untapped potential. The 6′3″, 205-pound signal-caller from Austin’s Anderson High School turned heads with his strong arm and ability to stretch the field vertically. Although he enters the season expected to redshirt, Gerlich is a classic pocket passer with the frame and fundamentals that college coaches love to develop. As a multi-sport athlete in high school, he brings athleticism and a competitive edge that should serve him well as he adjusts to the speed of the college game. With several upperclassmen ahead of him on the depth chart, Gerlich will likely use this season to build strength, absorb the playbook, and gain valuable practice reps under QB coach Justin Burke. His presence adds long-term security to the quarterback pipeline and gives the coaching staff an opportunity to mold a player with a high developmental ceiling.

Brandon Tennison (Redshirt Sophomore, No. 17)

Rounding out the quarterback room is redshirt sophomore Brandon Tennison, a former standout from Jeff Traylor’s own Gilmer High School. At 5′10″ and 200 pounds, Tennison doesn’t have prototypical height but makes up for it with football IQ and a strong command of the offense. As a high school senior, he threw for over 3,000 yards and helped lead his team deep into the playoffs. Since arriving at UTSA, Tennison has steadily developed behind the scenes, using practice reps and film study to refine his game. Although he hasn’t yet appeared in a major role during a game, his knowledge of the offense and time in the program make him a reliable depth option should injuries or circumstances call his number. While not the flashiest name in the group, Tennison is a steady contributor whose consistency and preparation could prove critical if UTSA finds itself needing a quick and experienced replacement at any point this season.

QB Room Outlook for 2025

UTSA enters the 2025 season with perhaps its most complete quarterback room in recent memory. Owen McCown is the centerpiece, an experienced and explosive playmaker who has already proven he can deliver in big moments. Behind him, Dematrius Davis Jr. provides seasoned depth, while BYU transfer Noah Lugo offers high-upside athleticism and long-term starter potential. True freshman Max Gerlich and redshirt sophomore Brandon Tennison round out the unit with a mix of future potential and internal development. With this group, head coach Jeff Traylor and his staff have flexibility, depth, and a succession plan—all crucial elements as UTSA continues to climb the ranks in the American Athletic Conference. The future at quarterback is in good hands, and the 2025 season could be the year this group helps push the Roadrunners into championship contention.

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