While Indiana is looking extremely likely to have a Heisman contender this season, they are looking as likely to have there first Heisman winner. After a dominate performance versus UCLA, Mendoza has pulled away from the pack for the trophy.
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — In the latest AP Top 25 poll, the top six teams remained unchanged. With both the Ohio State Buckeyes and Notre Dame Fighting Irish on bye weeks, there wasn’t much movement overall. Still, several standout performances kept the spotlight bright as the regular season nears its end — and every game grows more critical in the race for the College Football Playoff.
Heisman Trophy Contenders
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Now considered a frontrunner by most media outlets, Mendoza has surged to the top of the Heisman race. Following a dominant 56–6 shutout win over UCLA, the Hoosiers continue to show few weaknesses. Mendoza completed 15 of 22 passes for three touchdowns and one interception in the victory. With 24 touchdowns and just three interceptions on the season, the junior has positioned Indiana for a potential second straight College Football Playoff appearance.
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
Right behind Mendoza is Alabama standout Ty Simpson. After another strong performance in a win over South Carolina, Simpson now leads the nation in both touchdown passes (20) and completions (177) for 2025. However, with crucial matchups ahead against LSU and Oklahoma, the Crimson Tide’s quarterback will need to stay sharp to remain near the top of the Heisman conversation.
Diego Pavia, QB, Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia continues to climb the rankings after leading the Commodores to a game-winning touchdown against Missouri. He has now guided Vanderbilt to back-to-back wins over ranked opponents. While Pavia’s stats may not match Mendoza’s or Simpson’s, upcoming road games against Texas and Tennessee provide major opportunities to strengthen his case.
Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State
Coming off a bye week, Ohio State’s Julian Sayin didn’t have a chance to add to his totals — but he didn’t lose ground either. Sayin has thrown for 1,872 yards, 19 touchdowns, and three interceptions this season. The Buckeyes face Penn State next, a still-noteworthy matchup despite the Nittany Lions falling out of the rankings. Ohio State will likely need to win out to stay in the playoff hunt.
Not much has changed after Week 9, but every game remains vital as the season winds down. While Mendoza currently leads the Heisman race, the competition is still tight. Texas A&M quarterback Marcel Reed also remains in the mix after a stellar performance in the Aggies’ win over LSU.
At this point, it’s still anyone’s trophy to claim.