Full Breakdown
2025 Heisman Trophy Voting Results: Gunner Stockton's Notable Finish
12/12/2025, 6:10:28 AM
Heisman Trophy Finalists Announced
As the 2025 Heisman Trophy ceremony approaches, the Heisman Trust has revealed the rankings for players finishing fifth through tenth in this year's voting. The finalists for the prestigious award include Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, and Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin. Notably, Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez finished fifth, followed by Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith in sixth, Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton in seventh, Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss in eighth, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs in ninth, and Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King in tenth.
Gunner Stockton's Performance
Gunner Stockton, in his first season as a starter for the Georgia Bulldogs, achieved a commendable seventh-place finish in the Heisman voting. Throughout the 2025 season, Stockton recorded 2,691 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and five interceptions, alongside 442 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns. His performance was pivotal in leading Georgia to an 11-1 regular season and a second consecutive SEC Championship.
Stockton's completion rate of 70.7% and his ability to perform under pressure, particularly during critical moments such as the fourth-quarter comeback against Tennessee, showcased his resilience and skill. His statistics place him among the top performers in college football, marking the highest finish for a Georgia quarterback since Stetson Bennett's fourth-place finish in 2022.
Official Statements & Responses
Kirby Smart, Georgia's head coach, praised Stockton's contributions, emphasizing his character and determination. "Gunner's been awesome for our team. He's a selfless player. He makes great decisions," Smart stated, highlighting Stockton's impact beyond individual accolades.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite Stockton's impressive season, some analysts noted that his exclusion from the finalist list could be attributed to the strong performances of other candidates, particularly the four finalists who consistently delivered standout statistics throughout the season. Critics argue that the Heisman voting often favors players from teams with higher visibility or those who have achieved significant individual milestones.
What's Next for Gunner Stockton
While Stockton did not secure a spot as a finalist, he remains focused on leading the Bulldogs into the College Football Playoff, where they will compete in the Allstate Sugar Bowl on January 1, 2026. The Heisman Trophy winner will be announced on December 13, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET, with national coverage on ABC.
Verbatim Quotes
- “he embodies everything about that award.” — Kirby Smart, Head Coach, Georgia Bulldogs
- “The last thing I'm worried about is the Heisman, and I think the last thing he's worried about is the Heisman,” — Kirby Smart, Head Coach, Georgia Bulldogs
In summary, Gunner Stockton's seventh-place finish in the 2025 Heisman Trophy voting reflects a successful season as a first-time starter, setting the stage for his continued contributions to the Georgia Bulldogs as they pursue another national championship.
