As the 2025 college football season reaches its midpoint, the race for the Heisman Trophy is heating up—and the contenders might surprise you. FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt has weighed in with his midseason Top 5 players, and his picks are a mix of expected stars and rising underdogs. But here's where it gets controversial: Klatt’s list includes a quarterback who’s not even the most prolific passer in his conference. Could this be the year we redefine what it means to be a Heisman-worthy player? Let’s dive in.
During a recent episode of The Joel Klatt Show podcast (https://youtu.be/p2iUcJBXCxA?si=toRUxGy6uRK9nU3C), Klatt broke down his midseason contenders for the Heisman Trophy, Coach of the Year, and more. His analysis goes beyond the stats, highlighting players who are not just performing but transforming their teams. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not always about the flashiest numbers—it’s about impact.
Here’s Klatt’s midseason Top 5 Heisman Trophy contenders (https://youtu.be/p2iUcJBXCxA?si=toRUxGy6uRK9nU3C), presented in alphabetical order, along with his insights:
Carson Beck, Miami, QB
The former Georgia transfer has been nothing short of sensational in his debut season with the Hurricanes. Beck’s ACC-leading 73.4% completion rate, paired with 1,213 passing yards and an 11-to-3 touchdown-to-interception ratio, has Miami sitting pretty as an undefeated powerhouse. His performance in the ACC opener against Florida State—four touchdowns, 241 yards, and a 74.1% completion rate—was a masterclass in efficiency. Klatt notes, ‘He’s leading a Miami team that’s No. 2 in the country… Beck’s absolutely in the conversation to get to New York.’
Haynes King, Georgia Tech, QB
King might not be the flashiest passer, but his ability to win games is undeniable. The senior quarterback has led the undefeated Yellow Jackets with nine rushing touchdowns (an ACC-best) and four passing scores. His ground game is particularly lethal, averaging nearly 90 rushing yards and over 1.5 touchdowns per game in ACC play. Klatt praises, ‘Any big game, I just immediately think to myself, Haynes King is going to play well.’ But here’s the bold question: Can a quarterback with more rushing than passing touchdowns truly contend for the Heisman?
Ty Simpson, Alabama, QB
Simpson entered the season as a question mark but has since silenced the doubters. Leading the SEC with 16 passing touchdowns and just one interception, he’s been a cornerstone of Alabama’s resurgence as a national title contender. His 172.36 quarterback rating speaks volumes, but Klatt’s endorsement is even more telling: ‘This guy is fantastic. When they protect him, he’s tremendous.’ Yet, with Alabama’s early-season loss, can Simpson overcome the narrative that he’s not the sole reason for his team’s success?
Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State, WR
As a sophomore, Smith is already one of college football’s most dominant playmakers. Leading the Big Ten with seven receiving touchdowns (tied for second nationally), he’s also racked up 40 receptions and 505 receiving yards. Klatt boldly declares, ‘He’s the best player in college football… No one has been more dominant on the outside.’ But here’s the kicker: Can a wide receiver truly break through the quarterback-dominated Heisman narrative?
Midseason Winner: Fernando Mendoza, Indiana, QB
Klatt’s midseason Heisman pick is the Indiana quarterback who’s taken the Hoosiers’ offense to new heights. Mendoza’s 17 passing touchdowns (fourth nationally, first in the Big Ten) and 183.43 quarterback rating are impressive, but it’s his clutch performances that stand out. Leading Indiana to a 30-20 upset over Oregon with two fourth-quarter scoring drives, he’s proven he can deliver under pressure. Klatt raves, ‘He’s taken what was already a good offense and elevated it… He’s the catalyst.’ But is Mendoza’s stellar play enough to keep him at the top of the Heisman race?
Now, it’s your turn to weigh in: Do you agree with Klatt’s picks, or is there someone he’s overlooked? And more importantly, what does it take to truly deserve the Heisman Trophy in 2025? Let’s spark some debate in the comments!
