The 2025 Heisman Trophy Finalists are here, and the college football world is buzzing with excitement—and a bit of controversy. But here's where it gets controversial: In a year dominated by quarterbacks, only one non-QB made the cut, and not a single defensive player cracked the list. Is this a fair representation of the season's standout performers, or are we missing key contributors? Let’s dive into the details and let the debate begin.
The finalists were unveiled tonight during ESPN’s Monday Night Countdown (https://www.espn.com/nfl/schedule/mnf), as well as on the Heisman website and social media channels. The show aired from 6-8 p.m. ET on ESPN, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable award ceremony. Mark your calendars: the Heisman Trophy presentation is scheduled for December 13th at 7:00 p.m. ET on ABC, just days before the College Football Playoff kicks off on December 19th.
This year’s list features four exceptional players, three of whom are quarterbacks. And this is the part most people miss: The lone non-quarterback, Jeremiyah Love, has been nothing short of sensational for Notre Dame. Love’s performance this season has been a highlight reel, with career-best numbers for the 10-2 Fighting Irish. With 1,372 rushing yards, 18 touchdowns, and an impressive 6.9 yards per carry, he’s proven himself as a force to be reckoned with. Add in his receiving stats—27 catches for 280 yards and three touchdowns—and it’s clear why he’s a finalist. Now, with Notre Dame opting out of a bowl game, all eyes are on Love’s NFL transition. Will he dominate at the next level? Only time will tell.
Next up is Fernando Mendoza, the quarterback who led Indiana to a historic 13-0 season, capped by a thrilling 13-10 victory over Ohio State to claim the Big Ten title—the Hoosiers’ first in nearly six decades. Mendoza’s stats are equally impressive: 2,980 passing yards, an FBS-leading 33 touchdowns, and a 71.5% completion percentage. As the No. 1 seed in the College Football Playoff, Mendoza and Indiana are poised to make even more history. But here’s a thought: Is Mendoza’s success a testament to his talent, or does it owe more to Indiana’s stellar team performance? Let us know in the comments.
Diego Pavia of Vanderbilt has had a season to remember, culminating in a Heisman-worthy moment during the final week against Tennessee—complete with the iconic pose. Pavia’s dual-threat abilities led the Commodores to a 10-2 record, narrowly missing the College Football Playoff. His stats? 3,192 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and a 71.2% completion percentage, paired with 826 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns. Pavia’s versatility has been a game-changer, but is it enough to secure the Heisman? Share your thoughts below.
Finally, there’s Julian Sayin, the redshirt freshman from Ohio State who had a Heisman-caliber season despite a disappointing Big Ten Championship loss. Sayin’s numbers speak for themselves: 3,329 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and an FBS-leading 78.4% completion percentage. At 12-1, the Buckeyes are the No. 2 seed in the Playoff, thanks in large part to Sayin’s stellar play. But here’s a bold question: Does a freshman deserve the Heisman, or should experience factor into the decision? Weigh in below.
As we count down to the Heisman ceremony, one thing is clear: this year’s finalists have set the bar high. But the real question remains: Who will take home college football’s most prestigious award? And more importantly, who do you think deserves it? Let the debate begin!
