Julian Sayin’s hold on the Heisman lead has narrowed after Week 14. His production remains strong, and his efficiency still sets the standard for top quarterbacks. But the gap behind him has tightened. Several contenders gained momentum at the right time, creating a pressure-filled Championship Week for the Ohio State freshman.
Sayin enters the final stretch with over 3,000 passing yards, nearly 79 percent accuracy, and 30 touchdowns. Even so, the margin has thinned because Diego Pavia and Fernando Mendoza continue to surge.
Pavia has become one of the season’s biggest climbers. His dual-threat production pushed Vanderbilt into double-digit wins. His numbers, more than 3,100 passing yards, 27 scores, and steady rushing impact, keep him firmly in striking distance despite not having a championship game left.
Mendoza remains close behind Sayin in both odds and narrative. His 32 passing touchdowns, efficient decision-making, and added scoring on the ground have powered Indiana to meaningful wins all season.
NEW: Updated College Football Heisman Trophy Odds via @BetMGM🏆
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A strong performance in the Big Ten title game could swing momentum. Sayin’s lead is real, but Mendoza and Pavia have kept the race from settling early.

Recent Heisman Trophy Odds and Top 5 Rankings
As per the recent BetMGM rankings, these are the top 5 players with the best odds to win the Heisman Trophy:
Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State (+150)
The strong favorite thanks to elite accuracy, sustained production, and a clear path to a defining final-game moment.
Diego Pavia, QB, Vanderbilt (+170)
A dual-threat centerpiece who put Vanderbilt in positions it rarely reaches. His passing jump and rushing volume keep him firmly in the hunt.
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana (+175)
Big numbers, efficient play, and a championship stage give him the clearest chance to unseat Sayin late.
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame (+2000)
A major part of Notre Dame’s turnaround. He ranks near the top nationally in rushing touchdowns and continues to break long runs despite sharing backfield work. His steady output and explosive ability kept him inside the top five.
Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State (+17,500)
One of the most dangerous receivers in the country. He leads the Big Ten in touchdown catches and sits near the top in receptions and yards. His big-play presence helped Ohio State maintain one of the nation’s most explosive offenses.
Players in the six through ten range remain long-shot candidates but still shape the back end of the race. From Georgia’s Gunner Stockton to Alabama’s Ty Simpson, they’ve all had a good run, and their presence inside the top 10 for the coveted trophy is a testament to that.
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