The Heisman Trophy race is heating up, and the college football world is buzzing with anticipation. But here's the million-dollar question: Who will take home the coveted award this year? With the regular season wrapped up and the College Football Playoff bracket finalized, all eyes are on the final On3 Heisman Trophy poll, which has just been released. And let's just say, the competition is fierce.
As we approach the ceremony on December 13th, the final Top 5 player rankings are in, and they're a testament to the incredible talent on display this season. Four exceptional athletes will soon be heading to New York, where one of them will be crowned the winner of college football's most prestigious honor. And this is the part most people miss: the stories behind these players' journeys, which are nothing short of inspiring.
The 2025 Heisman Trophy finalists will be officially announced on Monday, December 8th, but until then, let's dive into On3's final poll. At the top of the list, we have:
QB Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt: This dual-threat quarterback has been nothing short of sensational, leading the Commodores to a 10-2 record. With 4,018 total yards (3,192 passing and 826 rushing) and 36 touchdowns, including an SEC-leading 27 passing touchdowns, Pavia has proven himself to be a force to be reckoned with. But is his impressive stat line enough to secure the Heisman?
QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana: After transferring from Cal, Mendoza has been instrumental in Indiana's historic Big Ten title win – their first outright championship since 1945. His performance in the conference title game against Ohio State, where he threw for 222 yards and a touchdown, solidified his place as a Heisman contender. However, some critics argue that his team's success might be overshadowing his individual achievements. What do you think?
RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame: Love's junior season has been nothing short of remarkable, with 1,372 rushing yards, 18 touchdowns, and 27 receptions for 280 yards and three touchdowns. His all-around game has been crucial to Notre Dame's 10-2 record, but is a running back's path to the Heisman more challenging in today's quarterback-dominated landscape?
QB Julian Sayin, Ohio State: Sayin has been at the helm of Ohio State's high-powered offense, leading the Buckeyes to a 12-1 record. Despite an up-and-down performance in the Big Ten Championship, his 258 passing yards and a touchdown demonstrate his potential. But with Ohio State's recent playoff losses, could this affect his Heisman chances?
QB Gunner Stockton, Georgia: Stockton's leadership has been pivotal in Georgia's SEC title run, showcasing both his passing and rushing abilities. His three-touchdown performance in the SEC Championship against Alabama was a highlight, but is it enough to propel him to the top of the Heisman race?
As we await the final decision, one thing is clear: this year's Heisman Trophy race is a testament to the depth and diversity of talent in college football. What's your take on the rankings? Do you agree with the poll, or do you have a different favorite? Let us know in the comments, and let's spark a friendly debate!