EGOT? We’ll take the Heisman any day! In college football, December isn’t awards season—it’s legacy season, crowned by the sport’s ultimate honor: the Heisman Trophy. It’s an evening filled with drama, highlight reels, and emotional speeches—without the Hollywood glamor, but plenty more grass stains.
If you’re a die-hard fanatic or simply watching to catch a glimpse of who’ll soon be a household name, the Heisman presentation has something for everyone. It’s not about naming the most outstanding player but honoring one thrilling season of unforgettable memories.
The Heisman Trophy Presentation: Date, Time, and Where to Watch
So, when do the curtains come down?
The 2025 Heisman Trophy winner will be announced on Saturday, December 13, at 8:00 p.m. ET, on live television from ESPN. This television event is a prime-time show staged at the Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Appel Room in New York City, an upscale but cozy venue where up-and-coming NFL stars take center stage with giants of the sport.
Since 1994, ESPN has had the ceremony exclusively, and Chris Fowler—yes, Saturday night college football’s voice—has been the go-to, high-energy host for more than 30 years. The ceremony will feature each finalist’s story, achievement, and, yes, their tuxedos (seriously, some of them do it up big).
Inside the Voting Process: Who Chooses the Winner?
Behind the scenes, the Heisman Trophy is democracy with a dash of showmanship. There are 928 voters, and they include
- 870 media representatives from six divisions of the U.S.
- 58 past Heisman winners
- 1 fan vote, courtesy of Nissan’s official Heisman fan ballot
Each voter gets to choose three players. A first-place vote is worth 3 points, second place 2, and third place 1. Ballots are mailed out on December 1 and must be returned by December 8—the same day finalists are revealed.
That’s correct. We learn who’s heading to New York five days before the award. From there, it’s all about waiting and fan arguments on X (formerly Twitter).
“The Heisman is the gold standard of college football,” said 2024 Finalist Ashton Jeanty. “Just to be mentioned means you’ve done something special.” – Boise State Broncos Running back, 2024.
A Look Back: Travis Hunter’s Historic 2024 Win
The 2024 Heisman Trophy delivered some serious fireworks if you were late to the party. Colorado’s Travis Hunter shocked the country by becoming the first two-way player to win the Heisman since Charles Woodson in 1997. Hunter, who lined up at both cornerback and wide receiver, electrified fans with his versatility, making clutch catches one minute and shutting down WR1s the next.
He finished with 552 first-place votes and 2,231 points, edging Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty and Georgia QB Carson Beck.
Congratulations to @CUBuffsFootball junior CB/WR Travis Hunter, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner! #HeismanTrophy #MoreThanATrophy pic.twitter.com/a8RdGUONVf
— The Heisman Trophy (@HeismanTrophy) December 15, 2024
“He’s the most exciting player I’ve ever coached,” said coach Deion Sanders. “He doesn’t just play both sides-he dominates both sides.” – Deion Sanders.
Hunter’s win also reflected a shifting college football landscape, appreciating complete players and rewarding defensive excellence just as much as offensive flash.
Breaking Down the Ceremony: What Happens That Night?
This is what followers are in store for during the 90-minute live broadcast:
- A deep dive into every contestant’s highlight reel
- Interviews with coaches, families, and past winners
- A few tears (don’t pretend like you don’t tear up)
And, of course, the moment when the drumroll happens while the winner is announced.
KEEP READING: Where Did Bo Nix Play College Football? Tracing His Path From Auburn to Oregon
And yes, you’ll see past Heisman winners like Tim Tebow, Derrick Henry, and Reggie Bush on stage, offering mentorship and a few soundbites for nostalgia’s sake.
What Winning the Heisman Means
Aside from the trophy, which was designed by New York’s Frank Eliscu in 1935, the Heisman is a career-maker. Heisman winners become NFL first-round draft choices, television commentators, business owners, and even philanthropists. From Joe Burrow to Bo Jackson, the Heisman leads to doors far wider than the field.
But don’t be fooled: Heisman-winning doesn’t guarantee pro success, and not Heisman-winning doesn’t mean failure (just ask Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers). Nevertheless, the award continues to be the most recognizable individual award in American college athletics.
So mark down that date—December 13, 2025—because another name will be added to college football lore. Whether he’s a dual-threat quarterback, a bruising running back, or a defensive unicorn, the Heisman Trophy rewards a season of mastery and enchantment.
One evening, one trophy, and one moment to remember.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
