Heisman Trophy Betting Preview: Top Contenders for 2025‑26 Season
As sportsbooks release early futures for the 2025‑26 Heisman Trophy, a trio of elite quarterbacks leads the way—alongside intriguing value plays and one non‑QB standout making serious noise.
Top Contenders
Arch Manning (QB – Texas)
Arch Manning leads the preseason Heisman race and steps into the starting role for a Texas team with national championship aspirations. With a loaded receiver corps and marquee games early in the year, Manning will have a prime stage to make his case. His pedigree and media draw give him a built-in advantage—he just needs the production to match.
Pick: Arch Manning to win Heisman (+650)
Garrett Nussmeier (QB – LSU)
Nussmeier shined late last season and now takes the reins full-time in Baton Rouge. With LSU’s offense returning most of its key weapons, and a defense strong enough to push them into playoff contention, the veteran QB is in position to put up Heisman-level numbers.
Pick: Garrett Nussmeier to win Heisman (+800)
Cade Klubnik (QB – Clemson)
After an up-and-down 2024, Klubnik returns with more experience and a revamped offensive line. If Clemson returns to form and makes a deep ACC title run, Klubnik’s odds could shrink fast. His dual-threat ability gives him multiple paths to standout stats.
Pick: Cade Klubnik to win Heisman (+1,000)
Jeremiah Smith (WR – Ohio State)
Smith had a phenomenal freshman season and is now the go-to target for an elite Buckeyes offense. If he posts another 1,300+ yard, double-digit touchdown season and Ohio State makes the playoff, he could follow the DeVonta Smith path to Heisman glory.
Pick: Jeremiah Smith to win Heisman (+1,200)
Drew Allar (QB – Penn State)
Allar is a bit of a dark horse, but if Penn State finally gets over the Michigan/Ohio State hurdle, he’ll be at the center of it. His decision-making and deep-ball accuracy have improved, and the schedule gives him chances to make big statements.
Pick: Drew Allar to win Heisman (+1,500)
Sleeper Pick – Jeremiyah Love (RB – Notre Dame)
With a new QB in South Bend, Love could carry the Irish offense. If he clears 1,600 total yards and leads Notre Dame to a 10+ win season, he’ll crash the Heisman conversation.
Pick: Jeremiyah Love to win Heisman (+5,000)
