As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Heisman Trophy race is already generating significant buzz. Leading the pack is Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, with Ohio State’s standout wide receiver Jeremiah Smith emerging as a formidable contender. The latest odds from ESPN BET position Manning as the favorite at +750, while Smith is not far behind at +1500.
Arch Manning: Continuing the Family Legacy
Arch Manning, the grandson of Archie Manning and nephew to Peyton and Eli Manning, carries a surname synonymous with quarterback excellence. Despite the weight of expectations, Arch has carved his own path at the University of Texas. After redshirting his freshman year and serving as a backup in his sophomore season, Manning is poised to take the reins as the starting quarterback in 2025.
In limited action during the previous season, Manning showcased his potential by amassing 969 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and adding four rushing touchdowns. His performance has not only solidified his position as a team leader but also attracted lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, including a notable partnership with Red Bull, elevating his NIL valuation to an impressive $6.6 million.
ESPN analyst Greg McElroy attributes Manning’s Heisman frontrunner status to both his on-field prowess and the significant buzz surrounding his family name. McElroy notes that while the Heisman has become a “popularity contest” to some extent, Manning’s talent and the high expectations placed upon him make his position as a favorite understandable.
Jeremiah Smith: A Record-Breaking Freshman Campaign
On the other side of the Heisman race is Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, whose freshman season was nothing short of spectacular. Arriving in Columbus as the top-ranked recruit in the 2024 class, Smith quickly made his presence felt on the field. He shattered Ohio State’s freshman records for receiving yards, receptions, and touchdowns, previously held by NFL Hall of Famer Cris Carter.
Smith’s standout performances were pivotal in Ohio State’s postseason success. In the Rose Bowl against Oregon, he recorded seven catches for 187 yards and two touchdowns, earning Offensive MVP honors and propelling the Buckeyes to a 41-21 victory. His ability to perform in high-stakes games has not only endeared him to fans but also positioned him as a serious Heisman contender.
The Heisman Race: Quarterback vs. Wide Receiver
Historically, the Heisman Trophy has favored quarterbacks, with 20 of the past 25 winners playing the position. However, Smith’s exceptional freshman season has challenged this trend, making him a strong candidate to break the quarterback dominance. His dynamic playmaking ability and consistent high-level performances have drawn national attention, suggesting that he could defy the odds and secure the prestigious award.
The upcoming season’s schedule adds another layer of intrigue to the Heisman race. Ohio State and Texas are set to face off on August 31 in Columbus, pitting Manning directly against Smith in a high-profile matchup that could significantly influence Heisman voting narratives.
Conclusion
As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Arch Manning and Jeremiah Smith. Manning aims to uphold and extend his family’s storied legacy, while Smith seeks to redefine the role of a wide receiver in Heisman conversations. Their performances will not only impact their respective teams’ successes but also shape the landscape of college football’s most prestigious individual award.
