Jeremiah Smith leads the Heisman race, but Gunner Stockton’s massive win over Alabama has shaken up the top five heading into Week 7.
The Heisman Trophy race is heating up as college football approaches the midway point of the 2026 season. Several quarterbacks are making serious pushes, but one superstar wide receiver continues to separate himself from the competition.
Here are my updated top five Heisman rankings heading into Week 7.
5. Trinidad Chambliss — QB, Ole Miss
Chambliss has been one of the most exciting quarterbacks in college football this season. After a disappointing loss to Florida, the Ole Miss star bounced back with three passing touchdowns in a dominant 52-17 victory over Vanderbilt.
His ability to extend plays and create explosive opportunities makes him dangerous against anybody. However, Ole Miss needs to keep winning if Chambliss wants to remain a serious contender.
4. Gunner Stockton — QB, Georgia
Nobody improved their Heisman résumé more this weekend than Gunner Stockton.
The Georgia quarterback marched into Tuscaloosa and helped the Bulldogs take down Alabama 20-17, throwing for 249 yards and a touchdown. Stockton has now completed 76.7% of his passes this season, and Georgia remains undefeated.
His statistics might not be as flashy as some other candidates, but winning big games matters. If Stockton keeps Georgia undefeated, his Heisman case will only get stronger.
3. CJ Carr — QB, Notre Dame
Carr continues to quietly put together one of the most impressive quarterback seasons in the country.
The Notre Dame signal-caller threw three touchdowns in a 58-7 demolition of Stanford, bringing his season total to 16 passing touchdowns with just one interception.
The Fighting Irish remain undefeated, and Carr has been remarkably efficient. However, a massive matchup against BYU this weekend will give him an opportunity to prove himself against tougher competition.
2. Darian Mensah — QB, Miami
Mensah has been absolutely outstanding since arriving at Miami.
Through five games, the Hurricanes quarterback has thrown for 1,438 yards, 15 touchdowns, and zero interceptions while completing an unbelievable 84.2% of his passes.
Miami remains undefeated, and Mensah has been the driving force behind its offense. If he continues producing at this level, he could become the biggest threat to the current Heisman favorite.
1. Jeremiah Smith — WR, Ohio State
At this point, is anybody actually going to catch Jeremiah Smith?
The Ohio State superstar has been virtually unstoppable, recording 48 receptions for 916 yards and 11 touchdowns this season.
Smith added another two touchdowns against Maryland and continues to make spectacular plays look routine. He is arguably the most talented player in college football, regardless of position.
The biggest challenge will be overcoming the Heisman’s traditional quarterback bias. However, if Smith maintains this ridiculous production, it will be extremely difficult to deny him the award.
The Bottom Line
Jeremiah Smith is clearly the frontrunner, but this race is far from finished. Mensah and Carr have opportunities to strengthen their cases, while Stockton’s victory over Alabama has completely changed his standing.
With several massive matchups approaching, these rankings could look very different in just one week.
