Heisman Race Heats Up as Julian Sayin Leads Week 13 Contenders

As the college football regular season approaches its climax, the competition for the prestigious Heisman Trophy intensifies. Heading into Week 13, Julian Sayin of Ohio State remains a top contender, continuing to impress with his remarkable performance this season. Close behind him is Fernando Mendoza, quarterback for Indiana, who has emerged as a betting favorite for the award.

The Heisman race showcases a variety of impressive talents, and as of now, the rankings reflect the athletes’ remarkable achievements on the field. Current betting odds from DraftKings Sportsbook provide insight into the frontrunners for the coveted trophy.

Leading Contenders for the Heisman Trophy

1. **Julian Sayin, Ohio State (+170)**
Sayin’s performance this season has been nothing short of exceptional. With a passing grade of **93.4**, he leads all quarterbacks in the nation, standing out for his historic accuracy. His **80.1% completion rate** could set an all-time record, while his **84.9% adjusted completion rate** ranks second in PFF history, just behind Bo Nix‘s **85.5%** in 2023.

2. **Fernando Mendoza, Indiana (-105)**
Mendoza, currently the betting favorite for the Heisman, boasts a **90.9 PFF grade**, placing him third among FBS quarterbacks. He leads the nation with **30 passing touchdowns** and has a passer rating of **129.6**, just shy of Sayin’s **129.8**. His strong performance this season has solidified his status as a serious contender.

3. **Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech (+13000)**
In a surprising turn, Rodriguez, a linebacker, has emerged as the highest-graded player in college football with a score of **93.8**. His defensive prowess is highlighted by a **95.5 run-defense grade** and a **93.3 coverage grade**, both ranking first among college defenders. He leads the FBS with **seven forced fumbles** and has recorded four interceptions, making him a standout on the field.

4. **Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame (+2500)**
Entering his junior year as a leading running back, Love has maintained his reputation with a **92.3 PFF grade**, ranking him first among all FBS tailbacks. He currently sits fourth in both rushing yards and touchdowns, showcasing his explosive running with **32 explosive runs**—the third highest in the country.

5. **Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt (+1600)**
Pavia has made a significant impact at Vanderbilt, holding a **91.2 PFF grade**, second only to Sayin among FBS quarterbacks. His **676 rushing yards** rank fourth among Power Four signal-callers. If Vanderbilt secures a spot in the College Football Playoff, expect to see Pavia as a prominent figure at the Heisman ceremony.

What Lies Ahead for Heisman Contenders

With only a couple of weeks left in the regular season, the race for the Heisman Trophy is still very much alive. Each of these athletes has demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, making the final stretch of the season crucial for their Heisman hopes. Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring their performances as the stakes continue to rise in the world of college football.

As the excitement builds, the question remains: who will ultimately take home the coveted Heisman Trophy? As the competition unfolds, every game will serve as a pivotal moment in determining the season’s standout player.