Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has lost his grip on the Heisman Trophy race, dropping from the favorite position after the Buckeyes suffered a stunning 30-18 loss to USC on Saturday night. Heading into Week 9, Smith was the projected frontrunner to become the first non-quarterback winner of the award in modern history, but his candidacy took a significant hit despite a solid individual performance. Smith hauled in 10 passes for 83 yards and a touchdown from backup quarterback Luke Fahey, yet his efforts could not prevent Ohio State from falling to a 6-2 record, a result that immediately reshaped the betting landscape.
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Miami quarterback Darian Mensah seized the opportunity to leapfrog Smith in the odds, becoming the new consensus favorite on FanDuel Sportsbook. The Hurricanes’ signal-caller capitalized on a high-profile Saturday night victory over North Carolina, showcasing the kind of clutch performance that typically drives Heisman narratives. Mensah’s rise is further bolstered by the continued excellence of wide receiver Malachi Toney, who helped secure the win and strengthened Miami’s overall offensive pedigree. This shift marks a pivotal moment in the 2026 season, as the award’s trajectory now leans heavily toward the ACC’s top quarterback.
The rapid fluctuation in odds highlights the fragility of the Heisman race, where a single upset can dismantle a long-standing favorite. While Smith’s talent remains undeniable, the loss to a ranked opponent like USC raises questions about his team’s ability to sustain a championship-caliber run. Conversely, Mensah’s ascent underscores the value of winning in high-stakes environments, positioning him as the primary candidate to claim the trophy. As the season progresses, the gap between the top contenders will likely widen, with Miami’s momentum serving as a critical differentiator in the final stretch of the campaign.
Source: Bleacher Report
