- Fernando Mendoza of Indiana remains a strong favorite for the Heisman Trophy.
- Julian Sayin of Ohio State keeps his chances alive with a big game against Michigan.
- Marcel Reed of Texas A&M’s ranking slips despite an impressive second-half performance.
- Diego Pavia and Ty Simpson are on the rise, while Gunner Stockton makes his debut in Heisman rankings.
- Jacob Rodriguez’s unique position as a linebacker Heisman candidate continues to draw attention.
The Race Tightens: Top QBs Leading the Heisman Chase
In the final weeks of the college football season, the Heisman Trophy race is heating up, with three clear favorites and six long shots competing for the prestigious award. This week’s rankings from SB Nation highlight the key players in the hunt.
Fernando Mendoza – Indiana
Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza has moved to true favorite status as he prepares for a 12-0 season against Purdue and Ohio State. Completing 22-of-24 passes for 299 yards and four touchdowns, Mendoza’s performance against Wisconsin solidified his position at the top of the rankings.
Bookies have taken notice, with ESPN Bet listing him as a -125 favorite, while FanDuel has him at +100. For Mendoza to secure the Heisman, he’ll need to avoid any meltdowns and maintain his strong performances against Purdue and Ohio State.
Julian Sayin – Ohio State
Oakland quarterback Julian Sayin kept his chances alive after a commanding 48-10 win over UCLA. Completing 22-of-31 passes for 184 yards, Sayin will have the stage to shine in two weeks when Ohio State takes on Michigan in the Big House. A strong performance against Michigan followed by a victory over Indiana could vault Sayin into Heisman contention.
Marcel Reed – Texas A&M
The ranking of Marcel Reed, quarterback for Texas A&M, depends on one’s perspective. He threw two interceptions and fell behind 30-3 at halftime against South Carolina, but rallied with three touchdowns in the second half to secure a comeback win. This mixed performance has seen his ranking slip slightly as voters sort out their opinions.
Diego Pavia – Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia has been essential to the team’s success, accounting for 54.9% of touchdowns and 40.9% of total yardage this season. With a trip to Knoxville looming, there is potential for him to make his Heisman moment in an upcoming game.
Ty Simpson – Alabama
Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson entered the Heisman mix after leading the Crimson Tide through a tough stretch that included a win over Georgia in Athens. However, his hopes were dented by a loss to Oklahoma. Simpson will have chances to redeem himself in upcoming games against Auburn and Georgia.
Gunner Stockton – Georgia
Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton made his debut in the rankings after an impressive 56-yard touchdown run against Texas. With a big game against Haynes King and Georgia Tech on Thanksgiving weekend, Stockton can make his case for Heisman consideration.
Jacob Rodriguez – Texas Tech
Defensive player Jacob Rodriguez of Texas Tech has continued to create buzz as the first linebacker in Heisman history. After leading the team with nine tackles and an interception against UCF, Rodriguez made a two-yard touchdown run under center in their 48-9 victory. His unique position adds intrigue to his Heisman campaign.
Implications for the Playoffs
The playoff race is also taking shape as key games this weekend will determine which teams and players make a strong case for the championship. The SEC Championship Game looms large, with potential tiebreakers that could impact the rankings of several contenders.
Voters have until the end of the season to decide their picks, but these rankings offer a glimpse into who is on top and how they may fare in the final weeks of the college football season.
