Week 2 of the 2026 college football season brings a Saturday slate that could start sorting out the Heisman race in a hurry, and the biggest spotlight of the day belongs to No. 1 Ohio State against No. 4 Texas.
That matchup is loaded with names already tied to the award conversation. Arch Manning, Jeremiah Smith, and Julian Sayin all have a chance to make a statement, but they’re still chasing Miami quarterback Darian Mensah, who has separated himself early.
Mensah has been electric through two games. In just six quarters, he has completed 41 of 45 passes for 653 yards, eight touchdowns, and no interceptions. That kind of start is enough to put him in front by a clear margin entering the weekend.
Still, there’s plenty of runway left, and Saturday night could tighten things up fast if one of the big names delivers in a prime-time showcase. Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr could also climb into the conversation with a strong outing against Rice, while Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss has the same kind of opening against Charlotte.
Here’s a look at the updated Heisman Trophy odds entering Week 2, via DraftKings SportsBook:
Darian Mensah, QB, Miami +490
Arch Manning, QB, Texas +950
Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State +1000
CJ Carr, QB, Notre Dame +1150
Trinidad Chambliss, QB, Ole Miss +1300
Malachi Toney, WR, Miami +1300
Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State +1475
Dante Moore, QB, Oregon +1500
Sam Leavitt, QB, LSU +1500
Jayden Maiava, QB, USC +1850
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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Rossers itinerary begins at North Carolina from September 11-13, then moves through the rest of the group over the following weeks, so the Hurricanes will have to make the most of their window whenever their turn comes. With his background in high-level high school and international play, he already has the kind of profile that makes every visit matter, and Miamis shot here feels legitimate because this fight is still in the stage where presentation, fit and feel can carry real weight. [Read more 🡒]
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Miami's Big Offseason Gamble Already Looks Very Different
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The backdrop to all of it is what made the deal so unusual in the first place. Mensahs transfer came with reported high NIL valuations and a settlement that cleared the way for him to play at Miami, turning a roster move into a national talking point long before he took a snap. For the Hurricanes, the on-field returns have arrived quickly, but the bigger story remains the business side that made this gamble possible. [Read more 🡒]