In a thrilling turn of events, Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss has been granted a sixth year of eligibility, setting the stage for a captivating 2026 season in Oxford. With sportsbooks buzzing, FanDuel has positioned Chambliss as a co-favorite for the Heisman Trophy, sharing +800 odds with Notre Dame's CJ Carr.
This season promises to be a spectacle, with several marquee players returning to the field, making the Heisman race more competitive than ever. It's worth noting that recent seasons have crowned unexpected Heisman winners like Travis Hunter and Fernando Mendoza, proving that anything can happen.
Here's a look at the top contenders for the 2026 Heisman Trophy:
- Trinidad Chambliss (Ole Miss) +800
- CJ Carr (Notre Dame) +800
- Arch Manning (Texas) +950
- Josh Hoover (Indiana) +1100
- Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State) +1300
- Julian Sayin (Ohio State) +1300
- Dante Moore (Oregon) +1300
- Darian Mensah (Miami) +1500
- Gunner Stockton (Georgia) +1600
- Sam Leavitt (LSU) +1600
Chambliss's journey is nothing short of remarkable. After transferring from Division II Ferris State, he started last season as a backup for Ole Miss. However, when starter Austin Simmons was injured, Chambliss seized the moment, dazzling fans with over 300 passing yards in each of his first three starts, an average of 81 rushing yards, and six total touchdowns.
His breakout performances catapulted him into the Heisman conversation, especially after his heroic efforts against Georgia in the College Football Playoff. Chambliss wrapped up the season with impressive stats: 3,937 passing yards, 527 rushing yards, 30 total touchdowns, and an 11-2 record as a starter.
The upcoming season raises questions about how Chambliss and the Rebels will fare without head coach Lane Kiffin and much of the offensive staff. During their playoff run, Kiffin was absent, yet several key staff members, including offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr., played crucial roles. Weis has since joined Kiffin at LSU.
However, Joe Judge remains a vital part of the team as the "head coach of offense" and quarterbacks coach, continuing to mentor Chambliss. The new offensive coordinator, John David Baker, returns to Ole Miss after a successful stint at East Carolina, bringing his expertise back to the Rebels.
Chambliss will also reunite with backfield partner Kewan Lacy, potentially forming the most dynamic QB-RB duo in college football next season.
While some might argue against Chambliss's extended eligibility, his return is a boon for college football fans. With expectations sky-high, Chambliss aims to lead Ole Miss back to the College Football Playoff and perhaps secure the first Heisman Trophy in the school's history.