In my first Heisman piece, I discussed my top 5 Heisman Trophy watch quarterbacks—regardless of conference. This week, I’m back with another update. The quarterback product across college football is slowly getting better—not quite where it should be yet, but definitely trending in the right direction. Here are my top 5 Heisman contenders heading into this weekend.
Last game: 29–22 win vs. South Carolina
Stats: 24-of-43, 253 yards, 2 TDs
Simpson hasn’t given me any reason to move him down. When quarterbacks play with efficiency and take care of the football, they deserve recognition. I love how this young man commands Alabama’s offense—poised, precise and patient. The Crimson Tide currently sit at No. 4 in the College Football Playoff rankings, and Simpson’s leadership is a major reason why. His calm under pressure and smart decision-making continue to define Alabama’s late-season push.
Last game: 49–25 win vs. LSU
Stats: 12-of-21, 202 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs; 13 carries, 108 yards, 2 rushing TDs
Reed holds steady after another explosive showing. Despite a pair of interceptions, he continues to be the engine of the Aggie offense. His dual-threat ability keeps defenses guessing and drives this Aggies team to perfection so far. Texas A&M doesn’t look like it’s slowing down anytime soon—and Reed is a huge reason why.
Last game: 38–14 win vs. Penn State
Stats: 20-of-23, 316 yards, 4 TDs (87 percent completion rate)
Sayin jumps two spots after another lights-out performance. His efficiency and decision-making have been elite, and he currently leads the nation in QBR (90.9). The Buckeyes have a legitimate Heisman contender under center—a sophomore who looks anything but inexperienced. Sayin’s ability to process and deliver with precision has transformed Ohio State’s offense into one of the most balanced units in the country.
Last game: 55–10 win vs. Maryland
Stats: 14-of-21, 201 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; 1 rushing TD
Mendoza slides one spot this week. While Indiana continues to handle business, I’d like to see more consistent, all-around performances from Mendoza. He’s shown flashes of brilliance and the ability to light up the scoreboard—now it’s about doing it week in and week out. Still, his poise and command have the Hoosiers trending upward in the Big Ten standings.
Last game: 48–36 loss vs. NC State
Stats: 25-of-35, 408 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT; 20 carries, 103 yards, 2 rushing TDs
Even in defeat, King’s performance was electric. The better team won that day, but King once again proved he belongs in the national conversation. Georgia Tech has gone through its rebuild and come out stronger, thanks largely to King’s growth. He’s an underrated player who continues to elevate his game—especially as a passer—and that’s boosting his draft stock every week.
We’re seeing a wave of quarterbacks finding their rhythm at just the right time. Efficiency, leadership, and decision-making continue to separate the elite from the rest. As we enter the stretch run, expect more movement in these rankings—because the Heisman Trophy race is only heating up from here.
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