2025 Heisman Trophy Finalists Announced: Love, Mendoza, Pavia, Sayin
The finalists for the 2025 Heisman Trophy have been announced, setting the stage for tonight’s ceremony in New York City. In a year defined by parity and breakout stars, the field features three quarterbacks and one running back.
The winner will be announced live on ESPN at 7:00 PM ET tonight, December 13, 2025.
The Four Finalists
1. Fernando Mendoza (QB, Indiana)
The heavy favorite. Mendoza has led the magical undefeated season for the #1 Indiana Hoosiers, throwing for over 40 touchdowns and winning the Big Ten Championship. His command of the offense has been the story of the college football season.
2. Jeremiyah Love (RB, Notre Dame)
The only non-quarterback in the group, Love has been the engine of the Fighting Irish offense. His explosive playmaking ability and versatility as a runner and receiver kept Notre Dame in the playoff hunt all year.
3. Diego Pavia (QB, Vanderbilt)
The heart and soul of Vanderbilt’s historic 10-win season. Pavia’s dual-threat ability and clutch performances—including the upset of Alabama earlier in the year—made him a national sensation.
4. Julian Sayin (QB, Ohio State)
In his first year as a starter, Sayin has lived up to the five-star hype. Leading one of the nation’s most potent offenses, he guided the Buckeyes to the #2 seed in the College Football Playoff.
Rounding Out the Top 10
The Heisman Trust also revealed the players who finished 5th through 10th in the voting:
- 5. Jacob Rodriguez (LB, Texas Tech) - A rare defensive standout in the top 5!
- 6. Jeremiah Smith (WR, Ohio State)
- 7. Gunner Stockton (QB, Georgia)
- 8. Trinidad Chambliss (QB, Ole Miss)
- 9. Caleb Downs (S, Ohio State)
- 10. Haynes King (QB, Georgia Tech)
Red River Implications
While no Texas or Oklahoma players cracked the top 10 this year, Arch Manning and Jackson Arnold/John Mateer will likely be names to watch for the 2026 campaign as they enter their second years as full-time starters in the SEC.
Tune in tonight to see who joins the legendary fraternity of Heisman winners.
