Drew Goins Wins Jeopardy! 2025 Second Chance Tournament

Drew Goins emerged victorious in the 2025 Jeopardy! Second Chance Tournament, securing a spot in the Champions Wildcard after a dramatic two-day finale. Goins, who initially struggled in the competition, rallied in the second game with a bold strategy and a correct Final Jeopardy response to claim the title.

The tournament, which aired on January 10, 2025, featured Goins competing against Sam Cameron and Enzo Cunanan. Entering Final Jeopardy, Goins led with $18,400, while Cameron had $16,600 and Cunanan trailed with $3,000. The Final Jeopardy category, “Notable Americans,” posed the clue: “Saying he fell in love with his country while a prisoner in someone else’s, he dedicated the rest of his life to public service.” Goins and Cunanan correctly answered, “Who was John McCain?” propelling Goins to a two-day total of $36,301 and the championship.

Reflecting on his win, Goins told TV Insider, “It felt like the Mr. Krabs meme of him spiraling in a good way. Positive trauma. It was truly just beyond my wildest, wildest dreams.” He credited his younger brother, Zach, for his unwavering support and practice sessions that prepared him for the competition.

Goins, who won $35,000 in prize money, shared that he used some of his winnings to pay off student loans and took a modest vacation to Mexico. He also expressed gratitude for the camaraderie among the competitors, noting that they bonded over their shared love of trivia and learning.

The Jeopardy! Second Chance Tournament, introduced in recent years, offers former contestants who narrowly missed victory another opportunity to compete. Goins’ triumph underscores the resilience and determination required to succeed in the high-stakes world of game shows.