Time to move on from the Tom Brady vs. Peyton Manning era. It was always a hot topic among the NFL’s elites, but let’s be honest, it’s time for a new debate. What if we told you that two of the most electrifying QBs in American football today aren’t even playing on Sundays yet? Enter Shedeur Sanders and Julian Lewis—two names that might not share the same league (yet) but have already sent shockwaves in their respective arenas. One is gearing up for his collegiate curtain call, while the other is chasing a high school championship dream. Both are rewriting record books, but the ultimate question lingers: who’s the better quarterback?

Let’s start with Julian Lewis. At just 17, the Carrollton phenom has already achieved a career that most high school athletes can only dream of. He’s a walking highlight reel, torching defenses to the tune of 3,465 passing yards and 46 touchdowns this season alone. Over his career, Lewis boasts an eye-popping 39-3 record as a starter. When he takes the field in the Georgia State Championship against Grayson, he’ll be looking to cap off a perfect season in the toughest division of Georgia football. And let’s not forget, Colorado head coach Deion Sanders has already drawn parallels between Lewis and his own son, the Buffs NFL-bound QB1. That’s not light praise.

Speaking of Shedeur Sanders, Coach Prime’s golden boy has been nothing short of spectacular. In his final collegiate season at Colorado, Shedeur has shattered records and left defenses scratching their heads. He ranks in the top 10 nationally in completion percentage, passing yards, and touchdowns while holding virtually every significant passing record in Colorado Buffaloes history. With one game left in the Alamo Bowl, his collegiate legacy is sealed. And he’s eyeing a top spot in the NFL Draft. Deion Sanders doesn’t mince words: “Shedeur is the epitome of what a quarterback should be—smart, poised, and clutch.”

Statistically, the numbers between the two are dazzling. Shedeur’s 2024 campaign included a 16th-ranked QBR rating of 78.2 for 3,926 yards, 35 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions as per ESPN. Those numbers were enough to earn him Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and a seat at the Heisman race table. If we make it even and compare his Trinity Christian High School stats, it will be more interesting.

As a senior, he finished with 3,702 yards and 43 touchdowns—a game of fine margins, indeed. Julian, still in high school, has shown similar efficiency and brilliance under pressure, proving that age is just a number when you’ve got raw talent and football IQ. The big difference? Shedeur has had the chance to prove it on a bigger stage, but Julian is coming for that spotlight fast. Although the senior had high praise for the Carrolton HS kid and hyped him before giving him the keys to Boulder and called him “Legendary” on X.

It’s not just about stats, though; it’s about presence. Shedeur has led Colorado to relevancy with a calm yet commanding demeanor, breaking barriers while playing under the brightest of lights. On the other hand, Lewis exudes a level of maturity that’s uncanny for a teenager. Watching him play, you’d think he’s a seasoned college QB. Both bring unique styles to the table: Shedeur’s precision and adaptability versus Julian’s explosiveness and field vision. It’s like choosing between a classic muscle car and a sleek sports coupe—both are elite, just in different ways. And let us tell you this: Coach Prime had a lot to say about them.

Julian Lewis or Shedeur Sanders? Deion Sanders settles it

“I think smart coaches know what works and stick with it,” Coach Prime shared on Tuesday, comparing Julian Lewis to Shedeur Sanders. “The similarities between their lives are unbelievable. That kid right there is everything we want in a quarterback—he’s smart, he can make every throw, and most importantly, he’s a winner.” High praise, but coming from Prime, it’s no surprise. However, in a tale of twists, the 5-Star’s throne might be having some company.

Recruiting insiders say Kaidon Salter, the star QB from Liberty, is in the running to be Shedeur Sanders’ replacement. This could be a problem for Julian Lewis, the ‘freshman’ who committed to Colorado on The Pat McAfee Show and got all the fans hyped.

Ranked as the sixth-best player in the country and the third-best quarterback in the 2025 class, this isn’t just any recruit—it’s a cornerstone for the program’s future. So, who’s better? That’s a question for the ages.