Heisman Trophy Race: A Wide-Open Contest After Three Weeks of College Football
As the college football season enters its fourth week, the race for the prestigious Heisman Trophy has become more unpredictable than ever. Oddsmakers are reporting a significant shift in favorites, with Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer emerging as a leading contender. Meanwhile, Miami’s Carson Beck is also in the mix, showcasing the competitive nature of this year’s award.
Current Favorites and Odds
As of Tuesday afternoon, sportsbooks have placed Mateer at +850 odds, making him the frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy according to ESPN BET. However, some betting platforms, including BetMGM, have Beck as the favorite with odds as low as +700. This fluctuation in odds reflects the uncertainty surrounding the award, which has not seen such long odds for a favorite at this stage of the season since at least 2012. Historical data from ESPN Research indicates that the previous longest odds belonged to LSU running back Leonard Fournette, who was at +500 heading into Week 4 in 2015.
This year’s Heisman race has been characterized by a lack of a clear frontrunner. Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who began the season as the longest preseason favorite in over 15 years at +650, has seen his odds plummet to +3000. Manning’s struggles as a full-time starter have contributed to this decline, although his name recognition keeps him as a popular betting choice.
The Impact of Injuries and Performance
Injuries and underwhelming performances have also played a significant role in shaping the Heisman landscape. South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers, who was once a popular pick, has seen his odds lengthen dramatically from +1400 to +5000 following an injury sustained during a 31-7 loss to Vanderbilt. According to Adrian Horton, senior trading director at ESPN BET, Sellers is now considered the biggest liability for the Heisman market.
Clemson’s Cade Klubnik, who entered the season as a second favorite with +900 odds, has also faced challenges. His performance has led to a staggering drop in his odds to 100-1, reflecting the struggles of the Clemson Tigers, who currently hold a 1-2 record.
Emerging Contenders
While quarterbacks typically dominate the Heisman conversation, this year has seen the emergence of other positions as potential contenders. LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier has moved from last week’s favorite to a tie for third place at +1300. However, the new favorites, including Mateer, Beck, and Oregon’s Dante Moore (also at +1300), have not garnered significant betting momentum, indicating a cautious approach from bettors.
Moore, for instance, ranks as the 10th-most-bet player by handle at ESPN BET but fails to make the top 10 at BetMGM or DraftKings. This suggests that while he has shown promise, bettors remain skeptical about his chances.
Non-Quarterback Contenders
Two names outside the quarterback position are gaining attention as the Heisman race heats up. Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is listed at +1800, while Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love has odds of +6000. Both players have attracted significant betting interest, particularly Love, who has become a notable liability at BetMGM. Horton remarked, “That will have us keeping a close eye on the Irish running back,” indicating that Love’s performance could impact the betting landscape.
Historical Context
The Heisman Trophy, awarded annually to the most outstanding player in college football, has a rich history dating back to 1935. Traditionally, the award has favored quarterbacks and running backs, with only a handful of wide receivers and defensive players ever receiving the honor. The unpredictability of this year’s race is reminiscent of past seasons where early favorites faltered, allowing lesser-known players to rise to prominence.
For instance, in 2007, Tim Tebow became the first sophomore to win the Heisman, while in 2019, Joe Burrow’s meteoric rise from relative obscurity to Heisman winner captivated fans and bettors alike. This year’s race, with its shifting odds and emerging talents, could very well follow a similar narrative.
Conclusion
As the college football season progresses, the Heisman Trophy race remains wide open, with multiple contenders vying for the coveted award. The fluctuating odds reflect the unpredictable nature of the sport, influenced by player performances, injuries, and betting trends. With several weeks still to go in the season, fans and bettors alike will be watching closely to see who emerges as the frontrunner in this thrilling contest. The Heisman Trophy, steeped in tradition and history, continues to capture the imagination of college football enthusiasts, making each season a unique chapter in its storied legacy.
