After a weekend that delivered an upset inside the top 10, the On3 Heisman Trophy poll experienced a shakeup of its own. Alabama’s signal-caller Ty Simpson has surged into the top spot, but several contenders remain close behind, ready to pounce.
The poll aggregates votes from On3’s national analysts Andy Staples, Ari Wasserman, Chris Low, Brett McMurphy, Pete Nakos, JD PicKell, and Charles Power who each submit a top-10 ballot (10 points for first place, nine for second, etc.). The combined results paint a clear picture of who’s trending upward.
1. QB Ty Simpson, Alabama – 66 points.
Over the weekend, Simpson completed 23 of 31 passes for 200 yards and three touchdowns in a tight win over previously unbeaten Missouri. His clutch play and clean decision-making once again proved invaluable. Through six games, he’s now thrown for 1,678 yards, 16 scores, and only one interception a level of consistency that has helped keep Alabama firmly in the playoff conversation.
2. QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana – 54 points
Mendoza continues to rise in stature. In his weekend performance, he went 20-of-31 for 215 yards with one touchdown and one interception, while adding 31 rushing yards on six carries. His leadership has been a key factor in Indiana’s undefeated start and their upset over Oregon.
3. DL Rueben Bain, Miami – 39 points
Even while on a bye, Bain draws attention. His presence in the trenches has been disruptive and impactful, often freeing up teammates to rack up big numbers. He’s one of those players whose value lies in what happens before the snap and it hasn’t gone unnoticed.
4. QB Carson Beck, Miami – 38 points
Miami’s offense continues to hum under Beck’s direction. Though his numbers this weekend came in less flashy form, he benefits from a strong supporting cast and a reputation for making the right plays in critical moments.
5. QB Trinidad Chambliss, Ole Miss – 31 points
Chambliss has slowly built his résumé, balancing passing and rushing contributions. Though his stat line may not always jump off the page, his composure and ability to make big plays when needed have earned him respect in this crowded field.
T-6. QB Dante Moore, Oregon – 30 points
Moore has had some rough nights, and this latest outing was no exception: 21-of-34 for 186 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, along with six sacks. His slide here reflects how sharply results can sway perception.
T-6. QB Marcel Reed, Texas A&M – 30 points.
Reed splits his game between the pass and the run. Over six contests, he’s thrown for 1,490 yards and 12 touchdowns, while also making plays with his legs. That balance gives him a foothold here, even with some turnover concerns.
T-8. QB Julian Sayin, Ohio State – 16 points
Sayin has not thrown an interception since mid-September. His efficiency and ability to manage games quietly with few mistakes have helped him creep into the conversation.
T-8. QB Jayden Maiava, USC – 16 points
Maiava’s rise is tied to some standout performances, including this weekend’s showing: 25-of-32 for 265 yards and two touchdowns. His presence on a primetime stage has helped boost his profile.
As things stand, Simpson sits atop the poll thanks to his consistent output and clean decision-making under pressure. But Mendoza’s hot start at Indiana, Bain’s unseen impact, and contributions from Beck, Chambliss, Moore, Reed, Sayin, and Maiava ensure this race remains far from settled. With half the season still left to play, big performances on big stages will likely determine whose name lives till December.
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