CBS’s Josh Pate ranks Carson Beck near the top of his list of best ACC quarterbacks this season.

The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) has long been home to some of college football’s most talented and dynamic quarterbacks. Each season, analysts, fans, and scouts eagerly debate who will emerge as the conference’s top signal-caller. For the 2025 season, CBS sports analyst Josh Pate has made a bold and confident declaration: Miami Hurricanes quarterback Carson Beck ranks near the very top of his list of the ACC’s best quarterbacks.
This recognition is not only a testament to Beck’s individual talents but also signals the growing respect and optimism surrounding Miami’s football program. In this comprehensive article, we’ll dive deep into why Josh Pate has elevated Carson Beck among the ACC’s elite quarterbacks, what sets Beck apart, and how his performance could impact both his own career and the Hurricanes’ season.
Who Is Carson Beck?
Carson Beck is a rising star in college football, currently the starting quarterback for the Miami Hurricanes. Known for his strong arm, poise under pressure, and leadership qualities, Beck has steadily developed into one of the most promising quarterbacks in the ACC.
Beck’s playing style blends a traditional pocket passer’s accuracy with the ability to extend plays when necessary. His decision-making has improved each year, and his ability to read defenses has made him a nightmare for opposing coordinators. At around 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds, Beck’s physical tools give him the durability and presence needed to lead a major college program.
Josh Pate’s Ranking: What Does It Mean?
Josh Pate is a respected CBS analyst known for his deep knowledge of college football and insightful evaluations. His rankings carry weight because they reflect a careful analysis of player performance, potential, and fit within their teams.
By placing Carson Beck near the top of the ACC quarterback rankings, Pate is signaling several key points:
1. Recognition of Talent
Beck’s skills and progress have not gone unnoticed. Being ranked near the top means Beck is considered on par with or better than many of his conference peers.
2. Confidence in Miami’s Offense
Pate’s ranking implies that Miami’s offensive scheme is designed well to maximize Beck’s talents and that the coaching staff is effectively supporting their quarterback.
3. Expectation of Impact
This ranking predicts that Beck will be a major factor in the Hurricanes’ success in the upcoming season, capable of leading the team against top ACC competition.
What Sets Carson Beck Apart?
Several traits and factors distinguish Beck and contribute to his high ranking:
1. Accuracy and Efficiency
Beck’s accuracy, especially on intermediate and deep throws, has improved significantly. He consistently delivers the ball where only his receiver can catch it, reducing turnovers and boosting offensive efficiency.
2. Leadership and Poise
As the quarterback, Beck is the team’s on-field leader. His calm demeanor in high-pressure situations inspires confidence in teammates and coaches alike.
3. Football IQ
Beck reads defenses well pre-snap and adjusts plays accordingly. His understanding of complex defensive schemes allows him to exploit weaknesses and keep defenses off-balance.
4. Physical Tools
Beck’s size and arm strength allow him to make throws from various platforms, including tight windows. He’s also durable enough to withstand the physical demands of the ACC grind.
Miami Hurricanes’ Offensive Scheme and Beck’s Fit
The Miami Hurricanes have been crafting an offensive identity that blends dynamic play-calling with a balanced attack. Their scheme utilizes Beck’s strengths, allowing him to make quick decisions and take advantage of playmakers in the receiving corps and running back room.
The coaching staff’s trust in Beck is evident in the playbook’s design, which includes both pocket passing concepts and rollouts that give him options to run or pass. This versatility enhances Beck’s effectiveness and keeps defenses guessing.
ACC Quarterback Competition: Where Beck Stands
The ACC boasts several talented quarterbacks, making it one of the more competitive conferences at the position. Beck’s ranking near the top means he is viewed as a player who can compete with:
- Top dual-threat quarterbacks: Those who excel both in passing and rushing.
- Pro-style passers: Quarterbacks known for precision and pocket presence.
- Experienced veterans: Players who have already had success in the ACC.
Beck’s ability to blend traits from these categories sets him apart and makes him a unique threat within the conference.
Impact on Miami’s Season and Beyond
A high-performing quarterback is often the key to a successful college football season, and Beck’s potential will likely be a major determinant of Miami’s fortunes in the 2025 campaign.
1. Leading the Hurricanes to Contention
If Beck lives up to his ranking, Miami could contend for the ACC championship, returning to national prominence.
2. Inspiring Confidence Across the Roster
A dependable quarterback boosts overall team morale and confidence, enabling other players to perform at their best.
3. Increasing NFL Draft Stock
Success at the collegiate level and in a competitive conference like the ACC can propel Beck toward consideration for the NFL draft, opening professional opportunities.
What Analysts and Fans Are Saying
The buzz around Beck has grown beyond just Josh Pate’s ranking. Fans and analysts alike have noted his improvement and leadership qualities. Social media chatter often highlights his ability to perform in clutch moments and manage games effectively.
Challenges Ahead for Carson Beck
While the outlook is optimistic, Beck and Miami face challenges:
- ACC Competition: Opposing defenses are talented and will be scheming specifically to disrupt Beck’s rhythm.
- Consistency: Maintaining high-level performance week after week is crucial.
- Supporting Cast: Success depends not only on Beck but also on the offensive line, receivers, and coaching.
Josh Pate’s decision to rank Carson Beck near the top of his ACC quarterbacks list underscores the rising expectations for the Miami signal-caller. Beck’s blend of talent, leadership, and football intelligence positions him as a player capable of making a significant impact this season.
For Miami fans, Beck represents hope and excitement as the Hurricanes aim to re-establish themselves as a force in college football. For ACC watchers, Beck’s performances will be a key storyline to follow.
As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Carson Beck to see if he can live up to the hype and justify his place among the conference’s best quarterbacks.