2025 Heisman Trophy Watch
The Heisman Trophy is the most prestigious individual award in college football, and the race for the 2025 season is already heating up. With a mix of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and dark horse candidates, this year’s competition promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
In this article, we’ll explore the early favorites, sleeper picks, and key storylines shaping the 2025 Heisman Trophy race.
The Heisman Trophy: A Legacy of Excellence
Since its inception in 1935, the Heisman Trophy has been awarded to the most outstanding player in college football. While quarterbacks have dominated the award in recent years, the 2024 season saw a rare exception with Colorado’s two-way star Travis Hunter taking home the trophy. Will 2025 continue this trend of diversity, or will a quarterback reclaim the throne?
Early Favorites for the 2025 Heisman Trophy
1. Arch Manning (QB, Texas)
- Odds: +700
- Why He’s a Favorite: Arch Manning, the latest in the legendary Manning family, is poised to lead Texas to new heights. As the full-time starter, his arm strength, football IQ, and leadership make him the early favorite. With a revamped supporting cast, Manning is in an ideal position to shine.
Source: Sportsbook Review
2. Garrett Nussmeier (QB, LSU)
- Odds: +900
- Why He’s a Favorite: Nussmeier’s ability to make big plays under pressure has made him a standout. With LSU’s offense retooled around him, including key transfers like Nic Anderson, he’s expected to put up massive numbers in 2025.
Source: Bleacher Report
3. Cade Klubnik (QB, Clemson)
- Odds: +1000
- Why He’s a Favorite: Klubnik had a breakout 2024 season, throwing for 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns. With Clemson’s deep receiving corps returning, he’s set to build on his success and lead the Tigers to another ACC title.
Source: ESPN
4. Jeremiah Smith (WR, Ohio State)
- Odds: +1200
- Why He’s a Favorite: Smith is one of the most dynamic wide receivers in college football. After a stellar freshman season with 1,315 yards and 16 touchdowns, he’s expected to be a key playmaker for Ohio State’s high-powered offense.
Source: USA Today
5. Julian Sayin (QB, Ohio State)
- Odds: +1500
- Why He’s a Favorite: Sayin steps into the spotlight as Ohio State’s starting quarterback. With elite weapons like Jeremiah Smith at his disposal, Sayin has the potential to put up Heisman-worthy numbers.
Source: FOX Sports
Sleeper Picks for the 2025 Heisman Trophy
While the favorites dominate the headlines, several sleeper candidates could emerge as serious contenders:
1. LaNorris Sellers (QB, South Carolina)
- Odds: +1800
- Why He’s a Sleeper: Sellers is a dual-threat quarterback with the ability to take over games. If South Carolina can build on their 2024 success, Sellers could find himself in the Heisman conversation.
Source: USA Today
2. Jeremiyah Love (RB, Notre Dame)
- Odds: +5000
- Why He’s a Sleeper: Love is coming off a season with 1,362 yards and 19 touchdowns. With Notre Dame’s strong offensive line, he has the potential to put up even bigger numbers in 2025.
Source: Bleacher Report
3. Devon Dampier (QB, Utah)
- Odds: +8000
- Why He’s a Sleeper: Dampier’s dual-threat ability makes him a dangerous weapon for Utah. If he can improve his passing consistency, he could lead Utah to a strong season and earn Heisman consideration.
Source: The Athletic
4. Carson Beck (QB, Miami)
- Odds: +2500
- Why He’s a Sleeper: Beck’s move to Miami gives him a fresh start. With a strong supporting cast and a favorable ACC schedule, he has the tools to make a Heisman run.
Source: USA Today
Key Storylines to Watch
- Quarterback Dominance: Will a quarterback win the Heisman for the 11th time in 12 years, or will another position break through?
- Impact of Transfers: Players like Carson Beck and Devon Dampier are looking to make an immediate impact at their new schools.
- Non-Power 5 Contenders: Can a player from a smaller program, like Navy’s Blake Horvath, make a legitimate Heisman run?
Conclusion
The 2025 Heisman Trophy race is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. With established stars like Arch Manning and Cade Klubnik leading the way, and sleepers like Jeremiyah Love and LaNorris Sellers waiting in the wings, the season promises plenty of drama and excitement.
As the season unfolds, fans will be watching closely to see who rises to the occasion and cements their place in college football history.