Preston Stone, SMU’s starting quarterback, has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal and plans to join Northwestern University, as reported by On3’s Pete Nakos. This move comes after a successful stint at SMU, where Stone showcased his talent with over 4,000 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and a 13-3 record as a starter. Stone’s departure is significant, given that he has also decided to remain with SMU through their College Football Playoff run before making the transition to Northwestern.

Stone’s transfer is seen as a major boost for Northwestern. The team struggled at the quarterback position last season, and Stone’s experience and proven performance at a high level could provide much-needed stability and leadership for their offense. Northwestern, coming off a season of rebuilding, will likely look to Stone to spearhead their offensive attack in 2024.

The move also highlights the evolving nature of college football, where the transfer portal has become a critical tool for teams and players alike to address immediate needs or find better fits. Stone’s decision aligns with Northwestern’s ambitions to elevate their program under new leadership and capitalize on his elite skills.

This transfer has sparked excitement among fans and analysts, as Stone’s potential to succeed in the Big Ten is seen as a promising sign for Northwestern’s future.

Preston Stone’s decision to transfer from SMU to Northwestern raises an intriguing question: can his arrival significantly elevate the Wildcats’ offensive performance in the highly competitive Big Ten conference? Northwestern has struggled in recent seasons to establish a consistent and effective quarterback presence, which has often been a stumbling block for their offensive schemes.

Stone’s impressive track record at SMU—highlighted by over 4,000 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and a 13-3 starting record—suggests he has the skill set to immediately impact Northwestern’s game plan. His ability to extend plays, make accurate throws under pressure, and lead an offense offers hope for a program seeking a resurgence.

However, transitioning to the Big Ten presents challenges. Northwestern will need to adapt its offensive system to maximize Stone’s abilities, while Stone himself must adjust to the heightened physicality and defensive prowess of Big Ten opponents. Additionally, his success will depend on the quality of Northwestern’s supporting cast, including their offensive line, receiving corps, and coaching staff.

Will Preston Stone’s arrival be the catalyst Northwestern needs, or will the challenges of a new system and conference limit his impact? As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Evanston to see if this partnership can redefine the Wildcats’ offensive identity.