LAWRENCE, Kan. — Kansas has named redshirt sophomore Isaiah Marshall its starting quarterback for the 2026 season, according to On3’s Pete Nakos.
Marshall won the competition over Cole Ballard and Chase Jenkins and is expected to make his first career start when the Jayhawks open the season against LIU at 7 p.m. Central on Sept. 4. The game will be televised on ESPNU.
Marshall replaces Jalon Daniels, who served as Kansas’ primary starting quarterback the past two seasons.
The Southfield, Michigan, native is entering his third season with the Jayhawks. Marshall appeared in nine games last season, completing three passes for 28 yards while rushing 15 times for 160 yards.
Ballard also saw limited action in 2025, appearing in eight games. He completed 10 of 22 passes for 108 yards with one touchdown and one interception while rushing for 92 yards on 15 carries.
Marshall and Ballard competed throughout spring practices and fall camp before Marshall earned the starting job.
Kansas is looking to bounce back after finishing 5-7 last season.
Following the opener against LIU, the Jayhawks will host No. 25 Missouri on Sept. 11 in Lawrence. The game will be televised on Fox.