From FCS to SEC, Zach Calzada’s journey embodies Second Chance Success. A seventh-year graduate student quarterback, Calzada has officially been named Kentucky’s starting signal-caller for the 2025 SEC season, a decision announced on August 25, 2025. This marks the culmination of a winding collegiate career that saw him navigate through multiple programs, including a pivotal stint at the FCS level, to revitalize his game. Kentucky’s offensive coordinator, Bush Hamdan, saw tremendous progression in Calzada’s film, leading to the Wildcats taking a chance on the experienced quarterback to improve their passing game, which ranked last in the SEC in passer rating in 2024.
The Making of a Quarterback
Early Promise and Challenges at Texas A&M
Zach Calzada, born on November 8, 2000, arrived at Texas A&M in 2019 as a highly touted recruit from Sugar Hill, Georgia. According to Texas A&M Athletics, his early career was highlighted by a stunning 41-38 victory over then-No. 1 Alabama on October 9, 2021. In that game, Calzada threw for 285 yards and three touchdowns, earning him SEC Offensive Player of the Week honors. Despite this high point, his time with the Aggies was inconsistent. As noted by CBS Sports, he struggled with accuracy, completing only 56% of his passes in one season and throwing interceptions in seven consecutive games.
A Difficult Transition to Auburn
After leaving Texas A&M in December 2021, Calzada transferred to Auburn in January 2022. However, his time with the Tigers was plagued by injuries and what he described as a chaotic program environment. He did not see any game action during his time there. This challenging period prompted Calzada to seek a fresh start, leading him to the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) in San Antonio, Texas, an FCS school, in January 2023.
Revitalization at Incarnate Word: A Quarterback Factory
Finding His Stride in the FCS
At Incarnate Word, often called a “quarterback factory,” Calzada underwent a significant transformation. Initially hesitant about dropping to the FCS level, he found a supportive environment under the guidance of UIW coach Clint Killough, as noted by the University of the Incarnate Word Athletics. In his first season at UIW in 2023, he played in nine games, throwing for 2,353 yards and 18 touchdowns. His second year, the 2024 season, marked substantial growth. According to UIW Athletics, Calzada led the Cardinals to the FCS playoffs, throwing for 3,791 yards and 35 touchdowns, completing 66% of his passes, and was named Southland Player of the Year.
Improved Decision-Making and Maturity
Crucially, Calzada’s decision-making improved drastically at UIW. His turnover-worthy play rate dropped by more than half, and his throw-aways increased from three to 26, indicating a newfound maturity in taking care of the ball and himself. This development was a key factor in Kentucky’s decision to bring him on board, providing him with a Second Chance Success in the SEC.
Kentucky’s Gamble and Calzada’s Opportunity
Hamdan’s Evaluation and Kentucky’s Needs
Kentucky’s offensive coordinator, Bush Hamdan, recognized Calzada’s progression by evaluating film from both Texas A&M and UIW. The Wildcats’ passing offense had struggled significantly in 2024, ranking last in the SEC in passer rating, leading to a 4-8 season. Kentucky needed an experienced and dynamic quarterback. Calzada, using his last year of eligibility, committed to Kentucky in December 2024, as reported by 247 Sports.
Winning the Starting Job
Calzada’s arrival in Lexington was met with anticipation. After winning a camp competition against redshirt freshman Cutter Boley, he was named Kentucky’s starting quarterback for the 2025 season opener against Toledo, according to UK Athletics. However, his debut on August 30, 2025, proved to be shaky, as he completed only 10 of 23 passes for 85 yards, one interception, and one rushing touchdown in a 24-16 victory. Head coach Mark Stoops acknowledged Calzada’s initial struggles, noting that he seemed amped up and anxious and pressing at times. Despite the less-than-stellar start, Stoops has publicly stated that it would be premature to pull the plug on Calzada, emphasizing that there is much he and the team can improve upon.
The Broader Impact
The impact of Calzada’s transformation and his current role at Kentucky is multifaceted. For Calzada, it represents a final chance to prove himself in the SEC after a challenging and winding collegiate career. For Kentucky, the hope is that his experience and the refined skills developed at UIW will stabilize and elevate their passing game, which is crucial for navigating a difficult schedule and returning to bowl eligibility. While his debut raised some concerns, the coaching staff is relying on his past growth and leadership to guide the Wildcats through the season. Lindy’s Sports highlights the importance of quarterback play in the SEC, and Kentucky is hoping Calzada’s experience will pay dividends.
Zach Calzada’s journey is a testament to perseverance and the power of finding the right environment to cultivate talent. While his Kentucky debut was not flawless, his track record of improvement, particularly during his time at Incarnate Word, provides a foundation for optimism. The Wildcats are betting that Calzada’s experience and leadership will ultimately translate into success on the field, offering him a true second chance to shine in the SEC.
