The 30 best college football quarterbacks of the 21st century

• Heisman Trophy winner (2006)
• Unanimous All-American (2006)
• Archie Griffin Award (2006), Walter Camp Award (2006), Davey O’Brien Award (2006)

Troy Smith began his football career with the Ohio State Buckeyes at running back and as a returner on special teams back in 2003 but got his first crack at quarterback during his redshirt sophomore season, backing up Justin Zwick. Smith saw five starts that season but truly took over the reins the following year.

Though he missed the season-opener due to an NCAA infraction that was handed down the previous year, Smith was the starter in the 2005 season for the Buckeyes and showcased his talents. In 11 games started, the quarterback went 10-1 as he threw for 2,282 yards, 16 touchdowns and only four interceptions. Furthermore, Smith rushed for 611 yards and 11 touchdowns while also earning Fiesta Bowl Offensive MVP in a triumph over Notre Dame.

The 2006 season, Smith’s final in Columbus, was his magnum opus, however. Smith started in 13 games and dominated the competition as he completed a career-high 65.3 percent of his passes for 2,542 yards, 30 touchdowns and only six interceptions, though his rushing dipped to just 204 yards and one score. His efforts in that campaign earned him the Heisman Trophy.

Smith’s career at Ohio State came to an unceremonious end as the Buckeyes were beaten handily in the 2007 BCS National Championship Game by Florida. Furthermore, Smith never amounted to much of anything in the NFL, but there’s no denying his success and production as a college quarterback.