Blog

College Football 2025 Heisman Trophy Watch

Dr. Roto

Published

12 hours ago

Sep 6, 2025; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Diego Pavia (2) runs the ball as Virginia Tech Hokies linebacker Michael Short (30) pursues during the first quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bishop-Imagn Images

When the 2025 College Football season kicked off, Arch Manning was the name that most people thought would be in contention for the Heisman trophy. Now here we are at the end of October, and there are many other names that rank way higher on the list of contenders.

Here are the top three contenders for the 2025 Heisman:

Sep 20, 2025; Bloomington, Indiana, USA; Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) warms up prior to the game against the Illinois Fighting Illini at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images

Diego Pavia (Vanderbilt) deserves serious consideration for the Heisman Trophy because he has been one of the most impactful and statistically impressive quarterbacks, leading Vanderbilt to a top-10 national ranking while posting elite individual numbers. Pavia has guided Vanderbilt to a 6-1 record, marking their best start in over a decade and a top-10 national ranking.

Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) has posted dominating performances, including multiple games with four or more total touchdowns. So long as Indiana remains undefeated, his Heisman odds will continue to rise weekly. Indiana is undefeated at 8-0, with Mendoza as the starter, with key victories against ranked teams. Ty Simpson (Alabama) has shown consistency and the ability to deliver in high-pressure, ranked matchups, keeping Alabama in the spotlight for the national championship. What makes Simpson particularly dangerous is that he has definite potential for more big-time Heisman moments in upcoming games

Others to Watch Closely:

Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Julian Sayin (10) prepares to put the ball in play during the game against the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025 in Madison, Wisconsin.

Julian Sayin (Ohio State) benefits from playing for an elite Ohio State team, maintaining solid numbers while facing a tough Big Ten schedule. Marcel Reed (Texas A&M) Reed’s dual-threat ability and Texas A&M’s climb in the rankings place him firmly in the top group. Texas A&M remains undefeated, making Reed one to watch closely as a legitimate contender

Haynes King (Georgia Tech) King, a dual-threat quarterback, has led Georgia Tech to a historically strong start, consistently producing monster rushing and passing numbers.

Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame) Love is a dynamic running back keeping Notre Dame in playoff contention, with over 750 yards and 9 touchdowns through the season.

Check out more of our articles: DrRoto.com Blog Articles

Here is a look at some other great Articles: https://www.thebiglead.com/author/loulanders/

In this article: