Heisman Trophy Contenders: Favorites as We Enter Week 13 of the 2024 College Football Season
The race for the 2024 Heisman Trophy is heating up as we approach Week 13 of the college football season.
While quarterbacks held the spotlight in the initial weeks, there has been a recent change, with Boise State’s running back Ashton Jeanty and Colorado’s versatile player Travis Hunter taking the lead.
However, many quarterbacks still stand a chance to secure an invitation to New York for the award ceremony and possibly win the coveted trophy.
Let’s take a look at the top five candidates with the best odds for the Heisman as we head into Week 13 of the season:
2024 Heisman Trophy Odds
Odds from BetMGM as of Friday, November 22:
1. WR/DB Travis Hunter, Colorado (-400)
Hunter has emerged as the frontrunner as the Buffaloes prepare to take on Kansas this week. His unique capability to excel in both offensive and defensive roles has significantly raised his profile, keeping him among the top contenders since September. This season, Hunter has recorded 74 receptions for 911 yards and nine touchdowns, along with 23 total tackles (two for a loss), three interceptions, and a forced fumble on defense.
2. RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State (+400)
Jeanty has established himself as an elite running back this season, guiding the Broncos to the top of the Mountain West Conference and potentially into the College Football Playoff. He is currently a semifinalist for the Maxwell, Doak Walker, and Walter Camp awards. Jeanty’s stats include 1,893 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns on 256 attempts, along with 17 receptions for 98 yards and one touchdown. This week, Jeanty and the Broncos are set to face Wyoming.
3. QB Cam Ward, Miami (+1500)
Ward continues to be a key player in the Heisman race, having led Miami to a 9-1 record in their first 10 games. Following a bye week after a loss to Georgia Tech on November 9, Ward’s stock might have dropped slightly. The senior quarterback has thrown for 3,494 yards, completed 241 of 361 passes, and accumulated 32 touchdowns with six interceptions. This Saturday, Miami will host Wake Forest for its Senior Day game.
4. QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama (+3000)
Once a front-runner after an impressive four-touchdown game against Georgia, Milroe’s stock has declined somewhat. However, strong performances in upcoming games against Oklahoma and Auburn could secure him a trip to New York. So far, the redshirt junior has completed 160 of his 237 attempts for 2,232 yards, with 15 touchdowns and six interceptions, while also contributing 608 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns on 120 carries.
5. QB Kurtis Rourke, Indiana (+4000)
Rourke has steadily climbed into the top five, leading Indiana to an unexpected 10-0 start under coach Curt Cignetti. With a crucial game against the Ohio State Buckeyes this Saturday, a standout performance could significantly elevate his Heisman chances. The redshirt senior has completed 171 of 238 throws for 2,410 yards, netting 21 touchdowns and only four interceptions. He has also added two touchdowns on 30 carries, totaling 17 rushing yards.