Heisman Watch: Week 1 Grades for the top 6 Candidates

Heisman Watch

It is that time of the year again as we will look at the top Heisman candidates and grade their week one performances. Make sure you check out our top football odds for betting on college football this season.

Bryce Young (QB, Alabama)

The Heisman Trophy winner last year started in impressive fashion. Preseason’s second favorite for this award began his campaign against Utah State as 41.5 points favorites. He was a beast on offense and racked up six touchdowns total, five via the air and one on the ground. He passed for 195 yards and ran for 100 more before he was pulled in the third quarter. It’s difficult to imagine what he could have done differently to increase his chances of winning this type of game. He is awarded a top grade for his almost flawless performance and is now in the Heisman driver’s seat.

GRADE: A+

Check out the top sportsbooks for betting on college football

4.6/5

DraftKings Review

New DraftKings Customers: Bet $5+ Get $100 in Bonus Bets Instantly!

Bet now

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/PR/WY). Void in NH/OR/ONT/PR. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new DraftKings customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $100 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: Promos | DraftKings Sportsbook . Ends 5/31/26 at 11:59 PM ET.

4.6/5

FanDuel Review

New Users – Bet $5 Get $150 If Your Bet Wins!

Bet now

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT). Hope is here. GamblingHelplineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Visit mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 21+ (18+ DC, KY, WV). Void where prohibited. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit www.gamblersanonymous.org . Must be 21+ in NJ, PA, MI, or WV. $10 first deposit req. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable bonus spins which expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. Contact 1-877-770-7867 (LA).

4.5/5

BetMGM Review

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win

Bet now

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (Available in the US) 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. Promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.

CJ Stroud (QB, Ohio State)

Stroud was the preseason favorite for Heisman in a top-five clash against Notre Dame. Stroud did not produce a spectacular performance, even though the Buckeyes were eventual winners. He finished 24/34 for 223 yards and two touchdowns. Although he did not have any impressive numbers this weekend, he is just a few steps away from easier games against Toledo and Arkansas State.

GRADE C

Caleb Williams (QB – USC)

Williams was another victim of a blowout victory. He played just three quarters against Rice in the Trojans’ win. Williams completed 19/22, gaining 249 yards and 2 touchdowns. His legs added an additional 68 yards. Williams was precise and will be able to handle the more difficult challenges ahead.

GRADE: A-

Stetson Bennett (QB, Georgia)

Bennett wasn’t among the Heisman favorites prior to Saturday, but that all changed after the Oregon game. Bennett made jaw-dropping plays in the Dawgs’ 49-3 win. Bennett threw for 358 yard and two touchdowns, while adding one on the ground.

GRADE: A+

Will Anderson (LB Alabama)

Anderson had five tackles, including one for loss on Saturday. It doesn’t matter because defensive players do not win the Heisman. He may get a grade if he is still one of the favorite players at the end.

GRADE: IT DOESN’T MATTTER

Anthony Richardson (QB, Florida)

Richardson led his Gators to an exciting win against #7 Utah on Saturday. Richardson, like Stetson Bennett was not a favorite before the game. However, Richardson ran for 103 yards with three touchdowns on the ground, despite having a poor game through the air. Although he will need to improve his air skills, Richardson will not win the Heisman, but he will be one of the most exciting players to watch this season.

GRADE: B

Quarterbacks are the current Heisman front-runners for oddsmakers. It will be interesting to see how other skill position players can break through. Will Anderson could also make an impact and potentially become a serious contender. The shot callers will continue to rule the roost until then.