Through nine weeks of the college football season, Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson continues to strengthen his grip on the Heisman Trophy race, holding a commanding lead in the latest On3 Heisman Trophy Poll. In a relatively quiet weekend across the top 10 teams, Simpson once again showed poise, leadership, and resilience the kind of qualities that have defined his campaign and kept him atop the national conversation.
According to On3’s weekly poll, which compiles votes from respected national analysts including Andy Staples, Ari Wasserman, Chris Low, Brett McMurphy, Pete Nakos, JD PicKell, and Charles Power, Simpson comfortably retained his No. 1 position. The voting system awards 10 points for a first-place vote, nine for a second-place vote, and so on. After tallying the ballots, Simpson stood at the top with 64 total points, underscoring the growing consensus that he’s currently the most complete player in college football.
Simpson’s latest performance didn’t feature record-breaking statistics, but it showcased the kind of clutch execution that voters love. In Alabama’s hard-fought win over South Carolina, Simpson completed 24 of 43 passes for 253 yards and two touchdowns. While those numbers may not leap off the page, the timing and importance of his throws were critical. The Crimson Tide trailed by eight early in the fourth quarter, facing the possibility of an upset that could have derailed their College Football Playoff hopes. Instead, Simpson delivered under pressure.
His best moments came late, when Alabama needed him most. On the game-tying drive, Simpson connected with Germie Bernard for a crucial touchdown before hitting Josh Cuevas for the all-important two-point conversion that knotted the game. From there, the Tide’s defense held firm, and Simpson led another efficient series that set up the go-ahead score. It was the type of performance that showed his growth as both a passer and a field general calm in chaos, calculated in execution, and never overwhelmed by the moment.
That late-game heroism added another chapter to what has already been a spectacular season. Simpson now boasts 20 touchdown passes to just one interception, an astounding ratio that speaks to his decision-making and accuracy. Even more impressive is the balance he’s found between creativity and control. He’s been able to extend plays with his legs, keep his eyes downfield, and deliver strikes under duress, all while minimizing turnovers a rare combination for a college quarterback.
The Crimson Tide’s offensive identity has revolved around Simpson’s steady command. After years of questions about consistency at quarterback, Alabama appears to have found its next elite signal-caller. Head coach Kalen DeBoer has entrusted Simpson with full control of the offense, and the redshirt junior has rewarded that confidence by leading Alabama to a 7-1 record and keeping them firmly in the playoff hunt.
More than the stats, Simpson’s leadership has become his defining quality. His ability to rally teammates, manage tense situations, and stay composed in big moments has earned the respect of analysts and fans alike. Even when Alabama’s offensive line struggles or the running game stalls, Simpson finds ways to make plays. His accuracy in the intermediate passing game, combined with his timing on deep throws, has made the Crimson Tide’s attack both unpredictable and efficient.
As a result, he’s now the clear frontrunner for the Heisman Trophy, ahead of contenders like Ohio State’s Will Howard, Oregon’s Bo Nix, and Texas’ Arch Manning. Each of those quarterbacks has had standout performances, but none has matched Simpson’s week-to-week steadiness and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. While others have had highlight-reel moments, Simpson’s case rests on consistency, leadership, and winning three pillars that have long shaped the Heisman conversation.
Another factor in Simpson’s favor is Alabama’s resurgence under DeBoer. The Crimson Tide’s offense has evolved into one of the most efficient in the SEC, and Simpson’s control at the line of scrimmage has been key. He’s not just a playmaker he’s a tactician, adjusting protections, identifying mismatches, and ensuring the Tide maximize every drive.
National analysts have also taken note of his maturity. Chris Low of ESPN described Simpson’s season as “a masterclass in composure and execution,” while Andy Staples pointed out that “he’s playing the most important position on one of the best teams in America and thriving in every scenario.”
With several pivotal matchups remaining, including a road test at LSU and a potential SEC Championship Game appearance, Simpson still has opportunities to cement his Heisman case. If he continues to perform at this level protecting the football, orchestrating comebacks, and delivering Alabama victories it will be difficult for any contender to close the gap.
For now, Ty Simpson remains the face of Alabama football’s revival and the player to beat in the Heisman race. His numbers may not always be gaudy, but his impact is undeniable. Week after week, he’s proving that composure, leadership, and winning football games are just as valuable as highlight plays and that may be the formula that carries him all the way to New York in December.
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