Throughout the spring and summer, we look ahead to the next college football season and highlight any number of players expected to be among the nation's most prominent names.

For most of them, it's because that player had a terrific year—or closed the previous season on a hot streak, at least.

Those expectations are never perfect, though.

Whether due to injuries or underperformance—and sometimes both—a few projected stars don't match that billing. Such was life for quarterbacks Tyler Van Dyke and Quinn Ewers in 2022, for instance.

But a season of setbacks might ultimately be the precursor to a standout 2023 campaign for these well-known players.

Tyler Van Dyke, QB, Miami

Miami head coach Mario Cristobal's debut season at his alma mater turned into a disaster for many reasons. A revolving door at quarterback didn't help.

Tyler Van Dyke opened the 2022 campaign as a notable NFL draft prospect. Within a month, though, his stock had taken in a massive hit. Van Dyke tossed two interceptions and was benched in a stunning loss to Middle Tennessee State.

In the latter half of the year, injuries limited Van Dyke to 16 passing attempts in only two appearances. Miami stumbled to a 5-7 finish.

Right now, Miami doesn't have a definite No. 1 receiver, although there is optimism around Colbie Young. Xavier Restrepo returning from a half-season injury will also help, while Cristobal and the 'Canes are likely scouring the transfer portal, too.

Add in what should be an improved offensive line, and Van Dyke has a vastly improved outlook for 2023.

Quinn Ewers, QB, Texas

What if Quinn Ewers hadn't hurt his shoulder against Alabama?

Considering how well he played in the opening quarter, perhaps the Longhorns would have won that game. But he presumably wouldn't have missed the next three outings, either. He probably would have looked much better over the final two months of a disappointing 8-5 year for Texas, too.

The good news for Ewers is that he's already made it "pretty clear" that he deserves the starting job over freshman Arch Manning, according to Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian.

Not only does Texas return key receiver Xavier Worthy and tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders, but wideout Isaiah Neyor will be back from an ACL injury as well. Jordan Whittington and Georgia transfer Adonai Mitchell—who caught the winning score in the 2021 season's national championship—are there, too.

Ewers is positioned for a superb year that could propel him into the NFL draft next offseason.