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The race for the Heisman Trophy, college football's most coveted individual award, is heating up as the new season begins. With former LSU star and 2023 winner Jayden Daniels now in the NFL, this year's competition features a mix of seasoned veterans and exciting newcomers. In this article, we’ll explore the standout players who are leading the charge for the Heisman Trophy in 2024.
We start with the frontrunners. These athletes have firmly established themselves in the Heisman conversation due to their exceptional performances and the significant roles they play on their teams.
Quinn Ewers, a junior, has made a substantial mark leading Texas to the Big 12 championship and a College Football Playoff appearance last season. Completing 69% of his throws and tossing 22 touchdowns, he has demonstrated impressive growth and consistency. The arrival of Arch Manning may have added fuel to his competitive fire, making him a compelling candidate as Texas transitions into the SEC.
Georgia senior quarterback Carson Beck has seamlessly filled the shoes of Stetson Bennett. Last season, Beck showcased his prowess with a 72.4% completion rate, averaging 9.5 yards per attempt and maintaining an efficiency rating of 167.9. With Georgia pegged as the favorite for the national title, Beck's high performance has firmly entrenched him in the upper echelons of the Heisman rankings.
Several quarterback transfers have quickly ascended as potential Heisman candidates, bringing their skills and experience from different programs to their new schools.
Former Kansas State standout Will Howard transferred to Ohio State, aiming to capitalize on the Buckeyes' robust lineup. Howard has transformed from a rocky start in his career to amassing over 3,300 yards of total offense and accounting for 35 touchdowns. This development bodes well for Ohio State as they await crucial showdowns in October.
Dillon Gabriel completes his collegiate career as the successor to Bo Nix at Oregon after stints at Central Florida and Oklahoma. Gabriel's record of adaptability and his leadership qualities will be key for Oregon as they shift from the Pac-12 to the Big Ten. The Ducks expect him to carry forward the high productivity that Nix exhibited, hoping for a seamless transition and continued success.
After helping lead Duke to a 4-0 start in 2023, including an upset win over Clemson, Riley Leonard suffered a severe ankle injury against Notre Dame that eventually derailed his season and Heisman hopes. Ironically enough, Leonard now finds himself at Notre Dame and seeks to find success with new offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock, who coached Jayden Daniels to a Heisman Trophy last year. Like the two men above him on this list, Leonard has dangerous dual-threat abilities and a talented group of new wide receivers, many of which transferred over.
Certain players, while not the usual suspects in the Heisman race, bring unique potential and have a fair shot at the trophy due to circumstances and their inherent talent.
Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter of Colorado have carved their own paths among the Heisman hopefuls. Sanders, excelling as a quarterback, and Hunter, a two-way player displaying versatility on both sides of the ball, have both garnered national attention. Despite playing for a team that may not rank among the best, their visibility and performances can build Heisman-winning campaigns.
Ollie Gordon II stands out as the primary non-quarterback contender. Leading the Bowl Subdivision in rushing yards last season with 1,732 yards and finishing second in touchdowns with 21, Gordon’s consistent excellence carries significant weight. However, his recent arrest on DUI charges introduces an uncertain element, even though coach Mike Gundy stated it would not affect his playing time.
Lastly, we have the rising stars and young athletes poised to make significant impacts this season and possibly beyond.
Tennessee's Nico Iamaleava may be inexperienced, but his legitimate Heisman odds speak volumes. Making just 45 attempts as a freshman and completing 28 passes for 314 yards, his growth potential is immense. Under the tutelage of Josh Heupel, who has revolutionized Tennessee's offense with 93 touchdowns against only 11 interceptions since 2021, Iamaleava has the framework to excel and possibly break out this season.
Cam Ward, opting to play for Miami after a notable stint at Washington State, intends to steer the Hurricanes into playoff contention. Ward has accumulated 48 touchdowns against 16 interceptions over two years, marking a major upgrade for Miami. His experience and strong arm will be a driving force as Miami aims to prove its playoff potential.
The 2024 college football season promises an electrifying Heisman race, filled with a blend of seasoned veterans, impactful transfers, and rising stars. Each of these players brings a unique narrative and set of skills to the table, making the journey to the Heisman Trophy a captivating spectacle. As the season unfolds, these contenders will vie for the spotlight, shaping the future stars of college football.
By understanding the strengths and backgrounds of these Heisman hopefuls, fans can better appreciate the dynamic and competitive nature of this year's race.