Heisman Race Intensifies as Julian Sayin Leads Week 12 Contenders

As the college football season approaches its climax, the competition for the Heisman Trophy is intensifying. Heading into Week 12, Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin remains the frontrunner for the prestigious award, according to recent rankings by Pro Football Focus (PFF).

Sayin, a redshirt freshman, boasts a remarkable 93.5 PFF grade, making him stand out among his peers. His impressive 80.9% completion rate is on track to set an all-time record, while his adjusted completion rate of 86.3% would also break PFF records if maintained. As the odds shift, Sayin is favored at +165 to win the Heisman, reflecting his dominance on the field.

Top Contenders for the Heisman Trophy

In second place is Fernando Mendoza from Indiana, with odds of +185. Mendoza recently led a crucial touchdown drive in the final moments of a game against Penn State, showcasing his resilience and skill. His overall passing grade of 87.0 in that victory places him just behind Sayin in performance metrics. Mendoza’s 124.4 passer rating for the season ranks him second among FBS quarterbacks.

Alabama’s Ty Simpson holds steady in third place with odds of +450. After a strong performance in Alabama’s victory over LSU, where he earned a 78.6 PFF grade, Simpson has proven to be particularly effective when operating from a clean pocket, throwing 19 touchdowns against only one interception this season.

Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia rises to the fourth position with odds of +1700. Pavia excelled in an overtime win against Auburn, achieving a season-best 91.4 PFF grade. His overall score of 90.9 ranks just behind Sayin nationally, and his 676 rushing yards place him in third among all players.

Finally, Jacob Rodriguez, a linebacker from Texas Tech, breaks into the top five, a notable achievement for a defensive player. Rodriguez has earned acclaim for his exceptional performance, reflected in his 93.5 PFF grade, which ranks second among all FBS players. His impressive run-defense grade of 95.4 leads all linebackers, while his coverage grade of 92.7 also stands out. Additionally, he has forced seven fumbles—more than any player in the country—and has recorded three interceptions, positioning him as a key defensive force.

As the season progresses, the race for the Heisman Trophy promises to deliver thrilling moments and unexpected turns. With only a few weeks remaining, the spotlight remains firmly on these top contenders as they strive for college football’s most coveted individual award.