Soon teams will be ready for another college football season. During the spring semester, we took a look at some of the teams that are trying to separate their competitors and their opponents.
Besides teams and the College Football Playoff, the other big story revolves around the Heisman Memorial Trophy. Four of the stores have moved in recent years. The latest is Jayden Daniels, who joined the LSU Tigers ahead of the 2022 season. Just 18 months later, he has cemented his name as a leader in college football.
The focus is on the 2024 Heisman Trophy race, which is loaded with talent and prospects. This year’s favorites are a mix of offensive linemen and strong running backs, each ready to make their mark on the field and on their teams.
Dillon Gabriel, QB: Oregon Ducks
Extra time on the college football field, especially with a top-tier program like Oregon, Dillon Gabriel’s smart strategy is to hone his skills and step up when he asked NFL fans. His skillful leadership and the Ducks’ strong offense made them Heisman Trophy contenders.
In 2022, he had 3,168 yards and 25 touchdowns, then had an impressive 2023 season with 3,660 yards and 30 touchdowns.
Gabriel’s departure from Oklahoma, done in a respectful and mature tone, paved the way for something more surprising. He works in Oregon. Jackson Arnold’s appearance at Oklahoma is suspected to have influenced his decision, but the real proof is yet to come.
Jalen Milroe, QB: Alabama Crimson Tide.
Rising from the ashes of defeat, he became the centerpiece of Alabama’s offense, leading to the SEC championship and coach Nick Saban’s final CFP berth. At 6-foot-2 and 220 pounds, Milroe combines size, speed and a weapon for an arm. In fact, his development as a pass rusher was evident throughout 2024. Under new head coach Kalen Deboer’s pass-centric scheme, Milo’s career skyrocketed. His continued improvement could put him in the Heisman race in 2025.
Ollie Gordon II, RB: Oklahoma State Cowboys. Initially unused, he became a key player in Oklahoma State’s offense, recording six straight games with 100+ rushing yards. His back-to-back games against Cincinnati and West Virginia were impressive, totaling 553 yards. With an FBS-leading 1,614 rushing yards and a close second in touchdowns (20), he was a perfect fit for the 2023 Doak Walker Award. His talent extended to 37 catches for 326 yards and a touchdown. It was Gordon II’s playmaking ability that put him in the Heisman race.
Quinn Ewers, QB: Texas Longhorns
Ewers is the catalyst for Texas’ resurgence among college football leaders. If he stays in Texas in 2024, the Longhorns have a bright prospect. Last year, he had 3,161 yards on a 70.7% completion percentage and 21 touchdowns with six interceptions. He’s looking to prove his 452-yard, four-touchdown performance in the Big 12 Championship game against Oklahoma State wasn’t just a one-off. Ewers’ prowess as a quarterback and his role in the revival of Texas football make him a favorite for the Heisman.
Shedeur Sanders, QB: Colorado Buffaloes. He threw for 3,230 yards, 27 touchdowns and just three interceptions, an impressive feat considering the circumstances. He shines in NFL drafts and has the No. 1 pick. Back in Colorado, his Heisman Trophy goal was well earned, especially since the Buffaloes were able to shore up their defense on the field rather than on paper. Sanders’ combination of skills, strength and energy will make him a strong contender.
Jaxson Dart, QB: Ole Miss Rebels
Ole Miss After reviving his career at Ole Miss under coach Lane Kiffin, Dart has a new look. His stats were impressive as he led the Rebels to a 10-2 record and a Peach Bowl appearance. 2,985 yards passing, 20 touchdowns, just five interceptions.
His improvement was evident, his interceptions down from 11 a year ago. Dart also contributed on the field, rushing for 377 yards and scoring seven touchdowns. His adaptability and leadership qualities established him as a Heisman Trophy winner..
