Every college football season begins with one of the sport’s biggest questions: Which player will become the next Heisman Trophy winner?

The race for college football’s most prestigious individual award starts long before the ceremony, with quarterbacks, running backs, and impact players building their cases through preseason expectations and early-season performances.

Quarterbacks Continue Dominating the Conversation

In recent years, quarterbacks have controlled much of the Heisman race because of their influence on team success.

Elite quarterbacks typically combine:

• Passing production
• Leadership
• Winning performances
• Big-game moments

A strong season from the position often places players at the centre of the award discussion.

Offensive Playmakers Enter the Spotlight

While quarterbacks receive significant attention, other positions continue making strong cases.

Running backs and receivers can become serious contenders by producing:

• Record-breaking statistics
• Game-changing performances
• Consistent impact

Team Success Matters in Heisman Race

Individual numbers are important, but Heisman voters often consider how players perform in important games.

Players leading their teams toward conference championships or playoff appearances usually gain additional recognition.

The Race Will Change Throughout the Season

Preseason favourites often face unexpected challenges.

Injuries, difficult schedules, and emerging competitors can completely change the award conversation.

The Heisman race is usually decided by players who perform best when the pressure is highest.

Final Outlook

The 2026 Heisman Trophy race is expected to feature elite talent from across college football.

Every touchdown, every victory, and every defining moment will shape the story of who becomes the next player to lift college football’s most famous individual award.

Source angle: Heisman Trophy official coverage, NCAA statistics, ESPN College Football analysis, CBS Sports reporting, and The Athletic award projections.