Story perspectives

Heisman Race Heats Up: Championship Week Showdown

12/7/2025

Center

Heisman Showdown Approaches

Conference championship week will shape Heisman voting, as the winner between Ohio State's Julian Sayin and Indiana's Fernando Mendoza becomes the frontrunner.
Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia remains in contention, with impressive stats despite not appearing in a championship game.
Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love may earn a finalist spot, but an injury hampers his chances.
Texas Tech's Jacob Rodriguez, a longshot, could surprise voters with standout defense.

Left

Latino Quarterbacks Shine

Diego Pavia and Fernando Mendoza, underrecruited quarterbacks, are frontrunners for the 2025 Heisman Trophy, signaling Latino representation.
Mendoza led Indiana to an undefeated season, while Pavia has had a historic run at Vanderbilt.
Family members and former players say their success inspires Latino athletes.
Ron Rivera and Anthony Muñoz launched the Hispanic Football Hall of Fame.
This year’s Heisman race could see half of the finalists from historically underrepresented communities.

1 of 2

Heisman Showdown Approaches

Conference championship week will shape Heisman voting, as the winner between Ohio State's Julian Sayin and Indiana's Fernando Mendoza becomes the frontrunner.
Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia remains in contention, with impressive stats despite not appearing in a championship game.
Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love may earn a finalist spot, but an injury hampers his chances.
Texas Tech's Jacob Rodriguez, a longshot, could surprise voters with standout defense.

1 / 2