How Ohio State's Julian Sayin, Indiana's Fernando Mendoza stack up in Heisman race

Still, the pivotal moment of his campaign might come on Nov. 29, when the Buckeyes head to Ann Arbor to face Michigan. If Sayin performs exceptionally well on the road in one of college football’s biggest rivalries, it could be the decisive moment that sets him apart from the rest of the field.

The case for Indiana's Fernando Mendoza

Not far behind sits Mendoza, who has turned Indiana from a solid playoff team into a legit national championship contender. The transfer quarterback has been one of the most efficient passers in the country; he's completing 73.5% of his throws and was clutch in Indiana's signature win against Oregon on the road. His consistency and leadership have made him one of the most intriguing stories in college football and a fast riser in Heisman odds over the past month.

For Mendoza, the best chance to win the award might come if Heisman voters wait to cast their ballots until after the Big Ten Championship game. If Indiana and Ohio State face off in Indianapolis, the matchup could serve as a winner-takes-all event, not just for the conference title but also for the Heisman award.

Both quarterbacks need to keep winning to stay in front. Sayin’s high-profile schedule gives him a chance to create a Heisman moment every week, while Mendoza’s steady climb and underdog story could sway voters late if the Hoosiers stay in the title hunt.

With Sayin and Mendoza now betting favorites, the Big Ten’s 19-year drought could soon end. Whether it’s the sophomore phenom from Columbus or the breakout star from Bloomington, the road to the Heisman is once again running straight through the heart of the Midwest.