Poffenbarger redshirted in 2021 at Old Dominion before deciding to transfer to the University at Albany, SUNY.[2] Entering the 2022 season, Poffenbarger competed with Tyler Szalkowski and Joey Carino for Albany's starting quarterback job, with Poffenbarger being named the starter in the season opener against Baylor.[3][4] Against Fordham, Poffenbarger threw for 412 yards, setting the school record for single game passing yards.[5] He finished the season throwing for 2,999 yards and 24 touchdowns, being named the CAA Offensive Rookie of the Year.[6] He was also named a finalist for the Jerry Rice Award.[7] The following season, Poffenbarger led Albany to the FCS semifinals, being named an FCS third-team All-American.[8] After leading the FCS in passing touchdowns (36) and passing yards (3,603), he entered the transfer portal for a second time.[9][10] He finished his career at Albany as the school's all-time touchdown passes leader.[11]
Miami
On January 8, 2024, Poffenbarger announced that he would be transferring to the University of Miami to play for the Miami Hurricanes.[12][13] During the 2024 season, he served as the backup to Cam Ward, appearing in four games, before entering the transfer portal for a third time.[14][15]