The 2025 college football season gets ready for a brand new set of names chasing the Heisman Trophy. Many of last season’s favorites have left for the NFL, making way for rising stars across the NCAA’s elite programs. These projected candidates represent the top contenders from every team in the post-spring top 25.
Ohio State – Jeremiah Smith, Wide Receiver
Jeremiah Smith became a household name after a sensational showing in the 2024 College Football Playoff, racking up 381 receiving yards and five touchdowns. With several key Buckeye offensive stars heading to the NFL, Smith steps into the spotlight as the clear No. 1 weapon.
Smith’s combination of speed and skill has analysts projecting a possible record-setting campaign, with some expecting him to push toward 1,800 yards or even the 20-touchdown mark. His role in the offense will only grow as Ohio State looks for another national title push.
The Buckeyes trust Smith to carry the offense, especially after important departures. His chemistry with incoming quarterback Will Howard is a focal point for Ohio State’s high-powered attack in 2025.
Few wide receivers have generated this much preseason Heisman hype. Smith’s odds, sitting at +1200, reflect major expectations for contributions and highlight moments all year long.
Texas – Arch Manning, Quarterback
Arch Manning is the biggest name in college football going into the 2025 season. Carrying the Manning legacy, Arch brings elite passing and mobility, giving Texas a true dual-threat under center.
In his early starts for Texas, Manning threw for almost 600 yards and four touchdowns, offering Longhorns fans hope for a big season in the SEC. Every Texas title hope and Heisman narrative focuses on what Manning can deliver this year.
The Longhorns boast a deep roster, but all eyes are on Manning’s development. His Heisman odds opened at +800, placing him with the shortest lines nationwide. Texas fans are expecting him to lead the team to an SEC Championship run.
With his skill set, name recognition, and the pressure of the big stage, Arch Manning shapes nearly every national story about Texas in 2025. If the Longhorns contend for the playoff, Manning is almost certain to be in the Heisman spotlight all year.
Penn State – Drew Allar, Quarterback
Drew Allar enters 2025 as the focal point of Penn State’s offense. His progress last season included a jump in yards per attempt, placing him just outside the elite quarterback discussions but poised for a huge leap this fall.
After key offensive departures, Penn State will lean more on Allar’s arm. Joining him is transfer wideout Trebor Pena, offering an extra spark. The combination could boost both his numbers and Penn State’s playoff prospects.
Despite a strong running back tandem, it’s Allar who’s expected to deliver Heisman-level performances. Offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki’s system is designed around *quarterback efficiency* and big plays downfield, which aligns perfectly with Allar’s strengths.
Penn State fans hope 2025 is the season Allar becomes a legitimate first-round NFL Draft pick and Heisman finalist, especially as the Nittany Lions push for a Big Ten title.
Clemson – Cade Klubnik, Quarterback
Clemson saw Cade Klubnik break out as one of the elite quarterbacks in college football last year, settling into his role with significant poise. An eye-catching playoff showing against Texas cemented his place under center for the Tigers in 2025.
With a stable of talented receivers led by T.J. Moore and Antonio Williams, Klubnik now sits at the heart of a more balanced, dangerous offense. His comfort running the offense is matched by growth in his decision-making and execution.
Clemson’s offensive resurgence directly links to Klubnik. National expectations are high, and his Heisman campaign has real legs if the Tigers can challenge for the ACC crown once more. His odds reflect confidence in his leadership and Clemson’s overall rebuilding progress.
Georgia – C.J. Allen, Linebacker
Heisman races rarely feature defenders, but C.J. Allen of Georgia could change that in 2025. Allen has already tallied 117 tackles and six tackles for loss in two seasons, stepping into an even larger role after star linebacker Jalon Walker’s move to the pros.
Georgia’s defense is again among college football’s fiercest, and Allen finds himself at the hub of their efforts. Should the Bulldogs return to national championship contention, Allen’s numbers and big plays in important games could make headlines.
Allen’s game is about reliability, speed, and strong tackling. While he might be a long shot in terms of Heisman odds, he could easily earn a place among the nation’s defensive legends if he anchors an elite Georgia defense for one more year.
Oregon – Makhi Hughes, Running Back
After transferring from Tulane, Makhi Hughes brings a record of huge production to the Oregon Ducks. His numbers from the last two years – 2,779 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns – make him one of the hottest running backs in the country for 2025.
Oregon’s offense fits Hughes’ running style perfectly, giving him plenty of touches each week. He has shown he can deliver against tough competition, going for big yardage even when Tulane’s offensive line struggled.
Now in a more stacked offense, Hughes will try to put up even better numbers. If Oregon stays in the playoff race, his stats could rival past college football rushing standouts.
Hughes’ explosive style, workhorse ability, and knack for finding the end zone could keep the Ducks in the spotlight and land him on several postseason award lists, including the Heisman.
Notre Dame – Jadarian Price, Running Back
Jadarian Price was a clutch performer for Notre Dame last year, breaking off a 98-yard touchdown run and making key plays during the team’s march to the national championship game. His blend of vision and breakaway speed sets him apart among returning running backs in 2025.
Notre Dame’s offense will rely heavily on Price with new faces in key positions. Price has proven he can carry the ball with consistency and make the big play when needed, making him the offense’s top threat.
If he maintains his health and workload, Price should quickly rank among the top running backs nationwide. With Notre Dame fitting him into pro-style sets, his versatility as both a rusher and receiver gives him plenty of chances to show off for Heisman voters.
LSU – Garrett Nussmeier, Quarterback
Garrett Nussmeier helms the LSU Tigers’ offense, bringing over 4,000 passing yards and a top-10 QBR from his breakout campaign in 2024. Nussmeier’s growth as a signal caller puts him front and center in every LSU conversation this year.
With the pressure to cut down on turnovers, Nussmeier’s continued development holds the key for LSU’s offense. His arm talent and understanding of the playbook have never been in question, but this season is about refining decision-making and efficiency.
The Tigers have surrounded him with a balanced attack, helping take some of the burden off his shoulders. If LSU’s ground game clicks and the offense avoids costly mistakes, Nussmeier has the upside to reach the Heisman podium by December.
Alabama – Ryan Williams, Wide Receiver
Ryan Williams stepped into the Alabama lineup with a legendary freshman year, highlighted by a 75-yard touchdown to seal an upset over Georgia. With 865 receiving yards and eight touchdowns, Williams showed the ability to be a true WR1 for the Crimson Tide moving forward.
Williams stands out for his speed, route running, and ability to turn short catches into long scores. Alabama’s quarterback situation will play a role, but Williams’ breakout potential shines if he remains the focal point.
With Alabama reshaping its offense, Williams is positioned for more targets and spotlight moments. Many believe he could follow in the footsteps of recent Alabama receivers to make Heisman shortlists with a string of explosive performances.
Florida – DJ Lagway, Quarterback
DJ Lagway arrived in Gainesville as the nation’s top quarterback recruit, and his early flashes have only increased excitement for his first full year as starter. Lagway ended his freshman year with a string of wins, including upsets over Ole Miss and LSU.
Lagway’s ability to run and pass is exactly what Florida’s offense needs. His six-touchdown finish to 2024 brought him into serious Heisman conversations going into the offseason.
The Gators count on Lagway to avoid mistakes and create big plays. Coaches have praised his poise and leadership, giving Florida fans hope that he could join the ranks of all-time greats in Gainesville if he lives up to expectations.
If Lagway puts up big numbers, Florida could quickly move back into the national conversation, and his status as the SEC’s rising star quarterback would be secure.
Miami – Carson Beck, Quarterback
Carson Beck makes a surprising transfer headline by taking the reins at Miami after leading Georgia the past two seasons. Beck’s numbers are strong, with over 7,500 passing yards and 50 touchdowns in his career.
Despite losing top targets and suffering drops, Beck displayed resilience at Georgia. Now at Miami, he joins a system built for quarterback success, offering a new chance to pad his stats and make an ACC title run.
Beck’s cool demeanor and experience set him apart, and Miami’s schedule could provide plenty of big-stage opportunities. While he may not reach nation-leading numbers, Beck’s efficiency and leadership will keep him in the Heisman conversation if Miami excels.
Illinois – Luke Altmyer, Quarterback
Luke Altmyer is on track to become one of Illinois’ all-time passing leaders, needing fewer than 3,000 yards to reach the program’s top five. He’s made steady progress after transferring from Ole Miss and taking a starting role at Illinois.
The Illini are a dark horse playoff contender, and Altmyer’s season could be a difference-maker. The offense will lean on him for explosiveness. If he elevates his production, Altmyer could surprise national pundits and snag some Heisman attention.
The journey for Altmyer will focus on consistency, avoiding turnovers, and finding deep connections with a new receiving corps. His leadership is one of the hidden keys to Illinois’ postseason hopes.
Kansas State – Avery Johnson, Quarterback
Kansas State handed the starting job to Avery Johnson, a second-year player known for his dual-threat skills. Johnson flashes potential on the ground and through the air, with realistic 3,000-yard passing and 1,000-yard rushing hopes this fall.
The Wildcats upgraded their receiver group to help Johnson, aiming to push for both a Big 12 title and national recognition. Johnson’s growth has already impressed coaches and fans alike, making him a player to watch closely this season.
If Kansas State remains in contention late into the season, Johnson’s contributions will be at the center of every big win. The team’s chances of a major bowl game rest largely on his shoulders.
BYU – LJ Martin, Running Back
LJ Martin showed his value at BYU when healthy, averaging 5.4 yards per carry over his last seven games in 2024. He offered a steady spark to the Cougars’ offense, rushing for at least 75 yards in five of those contests.
Martin is ready to exceed the 1,000-yard rushing mark if health and touches hold. While quarterback Jake Retzlaff gets recognition, insiders point to Martin as the player who can swing big games and upgrade BYU’s offense in the Big 12.
The Cougars hope to leverage Martin’s abilities for both steady gains and breakaway runs. Unpredictable as BYU’s offensive scheme can be, Martin’s performance could be a difference-maker in tight conference matchups.
TCU – Josh Hoover, Quarterback
Josh Hoover helped guide TCU back into contention last year by throwing just under 4,000 yards. While the Frogs’ offense sometimes leaned too heavily on the pass, Hoover’s playmaking ability gave the team hope for 2025.
Turnovers have been an issue – 20 in two seasons – but improvement this year could put Hoover in rare company among TCU quarterbacks. Coaches believe Hoover is ready for a significant leap, making better decisions and pushing for a Big 12 title.
With a deeper receiver corps and an improved running game, Hoover can spread the ball more effectively and take advantage of mismatches. A strong start to the season could quickly place him among the top quarterbacks nationally.
Michigan – Bryce Underwood, Quarterback
Michigan is hoping Bryce Underwood, the highest-rated offensive recruit in program history, sparks its offense in 2025. Underwood, compared to Vince Young for his combination of size and athleticism, may not start Week 1 but is considered Michigan’s most important piece.
Coming off a tough offensive season, Michigan looks to Underwood to energize the team and create a new offensive identity. His ability as a runner and passer puts him in the conversation for both Big Ten Freshman of the Year and even national honors if he catches fire.
Underwood’s impact will hinge on adjustment speed and team chemistry. Early growing pains are expected, but his upside is among the most exciting in the country this year.
Arizona State – Jaden Rashada, Quarterback
Jaden Rashada is set to lead Arizona State’s offense, following a breakout run late last year. Known for his improvisation and dual-threat skills, Rashada kept plays alive and helped the Sun Devils stay relevant in Big 12 contention.
With Cameron Skattebo off to the NFL, the pressure is now on Rashada to deliver even stronger performances. If Arizona State contends for a conference championship, Rashada will almost certainly be at the heart of the story.
The offense is retooling around his strengths, making him the team’s biggest playmaker. Observers expect Rashada’s numbers to jump as a result.
Oklahoma – Cam Ward, Quarterback
Cam Ward arrives at Oklahoma after a huge season with Washington State, where he logged nearly 4,000 yards of total offense and 44 touchdowns. With Oklahoma’s offense struggling last year, Ward’s arrival is seen as a potential turning point.
The Sooner coaching staff is set on putting the ball in Ward’s hands, giving him opportunities to both throw and use his legs throughout the season.
If Ward puts up similar stats in Oklahoma’s system, voters will pay close attention. His road to New York will be helped by an improved supporting cast and the chance to engineer upsets.
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Fans hope Ward can bring the Sooners back into the national spotlight, especially after a rough stretch in the previous season.
Iowa State – Rocco Becht, Quarterback
Rocco Becht benefits from a strong receiver crew and efficient offensive play. With over 6,600 passing yards and 48 touchdowns in just two seasons, Becht’s trajectory puts him within reach of school records and national attention.
Iowa State needs Becht to hit another gear in 2025, as the team eyes a playoff spot. If he continues his current pace and reduces mistakes, his name could start appearing in Heisman conversations by midseason.
His ability to stay level-headed under pressure is a storyline to watch, especially with critical games against top Big 12 opponents.
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Tennessee – Joey Aguilar, Quarterback
Joey Aguilar arrives at Tennessee with almost 7,000 career passing yards. After a dramatic offseason quarterback swap with UCLA, Aguilar is tasked with reviving the Volunteers offense and making the most of his final college season.
Aguilar’s arm strength and confidence give Tennessee a fresh start, but he needs to cut down on turnovers. He threw 24 interceptions over two years – minimizing those mistakes is key for both team and personal honors in 2025.
The Volunteers are hungry for a new narrative, and if Aguilar leads them to a strong record and big upsets, his personal trophy case could quickly fill up before he graduates.
Texas Tech – Josiah Rodriguez, Linebacker
Texas Tech is built on offense, but last year Josiah Rodriguez stole the show on defense. With 127 tackles, 11 for loss, and five sacks, Rodriguez helped carry the Red Raiders on the less glamorous side of the ball.
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Now, as one of the nation’s best linebackers, Rodriguez returns to lead a defense that could anchor Texas Tech’s CFP hopes. Coaches are aiming to keep the unit among the top in the Big 12 while giving Rodriguez plenty of chances for impact plays.
If Texas Tech pushes into the postseason, Rodriguez could become the rare defensive player mentioned for national awards and postseason recognition.
South Carolina – LaNorris Sellers, Quarterback
LaNorris Sellers is one of the rising stars at quarterback, posting strong numbers in the final month of last season. He averaged 261 passing yards and 81 rushing yards per game during a key five-game winning streak for South Carolina.
Sellers is now expected to compete as one of the best quarterbacks in the country. His dual-threat play style and momentum from the end of last season have South Carolina fans dreaming of an even bigger 2025.
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With an improved supporting cast and a year of starting experience, Sellers could easily move from a conference standout into national headlines by midseason. The team’s fortunes are closely tied to his continued growth under center.
Florida State – Rodney Hill, Running Back
The nation took note of Rodney Hill’s breakout freshman season, where he rushed for 1,173 yards and 11 touchdowns at an astonishing 7.1 yards per carry. Hill enters 2025 as one of the ACC’s most feared running backs.
Florida State’s offense will keep Hill involved in both the run and pass games. His quickness and ability to break tackles make him a home-run threat whenever he touches the ball, pushing up his Heisman ceiling.
Hill’s biggest challenge will be consistency, as the Seminoles face tougher defenses this year. Still, his ability to take over games is a reason he’s seen as a true difference-maker for Florida State.
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SMU – Preston Stone, Quarterback
Preston Stone emerged as a dynamic dual-threat quarterback for SMU last year. With 28 total touchdowns and a 65% completion percentage, Stone quickly moved the Mustangs into playoff contention.
SMU fans expect Stone’s development as a leader to shine in 2025, especially as the team tries to maintain its new-found national relevance. Stone’s mobility and poise under pressure give him a shot to stay in the Heisman conversation longer than most outside the Power 5.
A strong opening couple of months could put Stone’s name on the radar for national awards and keep SMU’s offense as one to watch.
Auburn – Cam Coleman, Wide Receiver
Auburn wideout Cam Coleman finished 2024 with some of the hottest numbers in the country, catching 22 passes for 306 yards and six touchdowns in the final three games. Those flashes helped Auburn to key wins late in the season and returned hope to the program under Hugh Freeze.
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Coleman’s athleticism and smooth hands are already bringing high expectations for 2025. If Auburn can stabilize the quarterback position, Coleman is lined up to be a national star and top draft pick within the next year.
Fans will watch Coleman to see if he can sustain that late-season momentum through a full campaign, carrying Auburn’s offense and building a Heisman-worthy resume in the SEC.
