When Gio Lopez left the University of South Alabama for the transfer portal, eyebrows were raised and opposing coaches smiled. In a world where quarterback development often means waving goodbye to a player your team molded into a star, Lopez brings a ready-to-play option.
At South Alabama, last year served as a breakout moment for the Madison, Ala., native. And now, he’ll be a coveted prospect in the spring portal.
Where Could Gio Lopez Transfer?
With just 13 seasons as an FBS program under its belt, the Jaguars have thrived recruiting‑wise in the talent‑rich Gulf Coast. In two seasons, the former three‑star prospect passed for 3,034 yards, completing 66.2 percent of his passes. He also accounted for 31 total touchdowns (22 passing). Word of Lopez’s departure stunned many as he told WSFA sports director Rosie Langello in December:
“I love Mobile. I love playing here. You know, a lot of people are more worried about getting money and securing a bag. I wanted to develop as a player, develop as a QB…I just want to get better and focus on next season.”
Players change their minds all the time; so do universities and coaches. It remains part of the game. With that said, where does the junior passer end up?
North Carolina Tar Heels
In the view of many, Lopez is poised to join first‑year college head coach Bill Belichick at the University of North Carolina. According to On3.com’s Pete Nakos, a move to Chapel Hill looks all but certain. Yet how would the athletic standout fare in an offense under a coach known for flashes of inventiveness but not necessarily accustomed to college’s level of change?
For years, Belichick earned a reputation for being as flexible as a brick. Remember, this is the same man who sent UNC a 400‑page list of demands before they hired him. However, Aiden Jensen of Tar Heel Wire believes the South Alabama transfer makes perfect sense, writing:
“In his first season as South Alabama’s full‑time starter, Lopez threw for 2,559 yards and 18 touchdowns — with just five interceptions. Lopez also rushed for 465 yards and seven additional scores, providing a dual‑threat ability that programs salivate over in today’s game.”
“Quarterback is an area of need for the Tar Heels, who only sport incoming 4‑star freshman Bryce Baker and Purdue transfer Ryan Browne on their roster. I’m sure UNC will carry a couple extra walk‑ons once its 2025 roster is finalized, but landing an experienced guy like Lopez is crucial in finalizing things.”
Jensen looks spot on in his assessment. First, Belichick will never start a true freshman at quarterback under any circumstance. Also, why start a player who could not secure the starting job at Purdue? That, in itself, raises the reddest of flags.
Tulane Green Wave
After a nine‑win season in his debut, the Tulane head coach suffered multiple quarterback losses. Starter Darian Mensah entered the portal after receiving a multi‑million‑dollar offer to take the reins at Duke. Next, the Green Wave signed journeyman T.J. Finley.
From there, Finley proceeded to get arrested for illegally possessing a stolen item; the coach suspended him shortly after. The school announced it would not pursue former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava. As a result, Lopez becomes a necessity. The coach’s offense prefers the dual‑threat quarterback who can push the ball vertically.
KEEP READING: Why Jadyn Ott’s Transfer Portal Journey Was So Quick
Lopez benefited from fantastic timing. He entered the transfer portal just after spring practice, when teams start throwing extreme amounts of money at quarterbacks. Wherever he lands, the former USA standout will make his new team vastly improved while growing his bank account in the process.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, men’s basketball, women’s basketball, and baseball!
