2026-27 Heisman Race: Jeremiah Smith Leads Top Contenders

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From The Bobby Carpenter Show

Jeremiah Smith Leads Heisman Discussion as Challengers Face Crucial Games

Tim Murray joined the show to discuss the Heisman race, last week’s action and some of the biggest upcoming games.

Jeremiah Smith remains the overwhelming Heisman favorite. Lincoln Kienholz was considered a dark-horse candidate earlier in the season and has played well, but his performance and his team’s results have not been strong enough to put him in position to win the award.

Trinidad Chambliss remains in the conversation at around 600 to 650. A big performance this weekend could move him back into serious contention. If Ole Miss wins Saturday night in Austin, Murray believes it will happen on Chambliss’ back. He called Chambliss the best quarterback in the sport right now because of his play and importance to the team. However, Ole Miss still has a challenging game against Georgia later in November.

Smith may be the best player in the sport, but the award does not always go to the best overall player and often favors quarterbacks. Ohio State also has two significant games over the next three weeks, with a bye in between. Smith’s ability to produce with Luke Fahey will be important as the race moves into November.

Murray would not recommend betting Smith at minus-105 on October 22 because Luke Fahey has not started a game. There is uncertainty, but Murray expects Smith’s numbers to increase. Whether the quarterback is Fahey or Saint Clair, the simple approach should be to look for number four as often as possible.

Darian Mensah is another candidate to watch ahead of a November 7 game at Notre Dame. Notre Dame’s defense was not perfect in its previous game, when Bear Bachmire found some opportunities before second-half adjustments. If Miami wins at Notre Dame, Mensah could become another option in the Heisman conversation.

Murray also highlighted Oregon State true freshman Jesse Legree, although he would not bet on him for the award. Legree already has 1,000 receiving yards, while quarterback Atkinson has also played well. Murray called it one of college football’s better stories this year.