As we move towards the Heisman Trophy ceremony on Saturday night, two-way Colorado Buffaloes star Travis Hunter remains the odds-on favorite to take home the award. Let’s predict the early favorites for college football’s most prestigious award for the 2025 season.
Arch Manning – QB, Texas
The nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning and grandson of former New Orleans Saints quarterback Archie Manning, Arch appears to be in line to take over the starting job in Austin after an up-and-down year from quarterback Quinn Ewers. Manning saw action in eight games this year, throwing for 939 yards, nine touchdowns and two interceptions. Dissimilar to his Super Bowl-winning uncles, Manning is a dual-threat quarterback, scoring four times on the ground this year to go along with 100 rushing yards. Assuming Manning can take over the starting role, he could very well be the Heisman favorite going into the 2025 season.
DJ Lagway – QB, Florida
A heralded high school recruit, Lagway traded snaps with quarterback Graham Mertz before taking over down the stretch and wowing with his arm talent and escapability in the pocket. Lagway finished the year with 11 touchdowns, seven interceptions and 1,610 yards and will return to Florida with a year of experience under his belt and a solid receiving corps led by junior wide receiver Eugene Wilson III.
Ryan Williams – WR, Alabama
The 17-year-old true freshman sensation led the Crimson Tide in receiving yards and touchdowns this year, showcasing his big play ability, averaging 19.0 yards per reception. Assuming Williams stays put in Tuscaloosa, the only question is who will be delivering the ball to him, as quarterback Jalen Milroe could declare for the NFL Draft or enter the transfer portal this winter.
Jeremiah Smith – WR, Ohio State
Another true freshman, Smith, hauled in 10 touchdowns through the air and scored another on the ground in his 2024 campaign. A physical, gifted receiver, Smith had viewers in awe with acrobatic one-handed catches on numerous occasions. Ohio State starts the season on Aug. 30 against Texas, a good opportunity for Smith to start his Heisman campaign on a national stage.
Nico Iamaleava – QB, Tennessee
The sophomore signal-caller had a solid 2024 season, totaling 19 touchdowns, five interceptions and 2,512 yards through the air while leading the Volunteers to a College Football Playoff appearance. Head coach Josh Heupel’s fast-paced offense will always provide its quarterback with ample scoring opportunities, and Iamaleava will be in Heisman contention from week one.
