Sayin and Manning Surge in 2025 Heisman Race

The 2025 Heisman race has shifted, with Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin surging to the top after strong play (including vs. Penn State) while Indiana's Brennan Mendoza and Alabama's Bryce Young remain contenders. Texas defeated No. 9 Vanderbilt 34-31 as Arch Manning returned from a concussion to throw 328 yards and three touchdowns, completing 75% of his passes and becoming the first Texas player with that stat line against a top‑10 opponent. The win revived Manning's CFP and Heisman conversation and likely damaged Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia's chances. Texas employed an aggressive no‑huddle attack, finished with 428 yards of offense and a defense that generated six sacks despite an offensive line that had replaced four starters and a new receiving corps. Vanderbilt's loss also opened room for transfer‑portal dark horses such as Ole Miss's Trinidad Chambliss to emerge in the race.