Heisman Trophy Race Intensifies as Week 7 Approaches

INDIANAPOLIS, IN — As the 2025 college football season approaches its midpoint, the race for the Heisman Trophy is heating up with several players emerging as frontrunners. Heading into Week 7, Oregon‘s Dante Moore tops the list.

Moore, a redshirt sophomore, boasts an impressive 88.9 PFF passing grade, ranking eighth among FBS quarterbacks. His 81.7% adjusted completion rate is tied for third nationally. Among the standout stats, only 3.1% of the pressures he has faced have resulted in sacks. He looks to solidify his status against No. 7 Indiana this Saturday.

Miami quarterback Carson Beck has surged to second place in odds following a 28-22 victory over No. 18 Florida State. His performance included four touchdown passes and no interceptions, and his adjusted completion rate stood at 77.8% during that game. Beck and the Hurricanes have a bye this week, preparing for their matchup against a 4-1 team next Friday.

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson brings momentum as well, coming off a victory against No. 16 Arkansas. With a PFF passing grade of 90.8, he has three games this season surpassing the 90.0 mark. Simpson leads Alabama into another challenging road game against No. 14 Missouri this weekend.

Ohio State‘s Jeremiah Smith remains a notable presence in the race. In a recent game against Minnesota, he recorded two receiving touchdowns, keeping his stats strong with 463 receiving yards this season and six touchdown catches. The Buckeyes are set to face No. 17 Michigan State this week.

Lastly, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza stays fifth in the Heisman odds after a bye week. Ranked second in the nation with 16 touchdown passes, Mendoza has maintained high statistics, both from a clean pocket and under pressure. His upcoming test against third-ranked Oregon could elevate his candidacy further.

The competition in the Heisman race remains close, with these players demonstrating the skills and potential to take home the prestigious trophy by season’s end.