The 2026 college football season is already shaping up to be a showcase of elite talent, with several standout players poised to dominate the award circuits. From the Irish to the Buckeyes, the Rebels, the Longhorns and the Ducks, each program boasts a candidate who could rewrite the narrative of the year.
Heisman Contender Spotlight
CJ Carr, the Notre Dame quarterback, has emerged as the early favorite for the Heisman Trophy after throwing for 2,741 yards, 24 touchdowns and just six interceptions in 2025. His blend of poise and production has placed him at the top of the Heisman conversation.
Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State’s dynamic receiver, is expected to capture the Biletnikoff Award. He has topped the Buckeyes in receiving yards and scores in both of his seasons, finishing second in 2025, and his chemistry with the same starting quarterback gives him a distinct edge.
Kewan Lacy of Ole Miss is projected to win the Doak Walker Award after rushing for 1,567 yards and 24 touchdowns, setting program records for carries and rushing scores. His relentless style has made him a cornerstone of the Rebels’ offense.
Leonard Moore, a cornerback for Notre Dame, brings unanimous All‑American honors and five interceptions in 2025 to the table, positioning him as a leading candidate for the Jim Thorpe Award.
Texas pass rusher Colin Simmons is expected to claim the Bednarik Award after leading the SEC with 12 sacks and anchoring a defense that helped the Longhorns surge throughout the season.
Iapani Laloulu, Oregon’s center, earned first‑team All‑America recognition and is a top contender for the Outland Trophy, having helped the Ducks fill the void left by a departing star on the offensive line.
Beyond individual accolades, Notre Dame’s strong schedule and cohesive roster could propel them into the College Football Playoff conversation despite falling short in 2025, adding another layer of intrigue to the award races.
Defensive and Offensive Line Impact
Moore’s interceptions and Simmons’ pass‑rushing prowess highlight a defensive surge across the nation, while Laloulu’s presence on the line underscores the importance of interior stability for offensive success.
The Heisman race remains wide open, with emerging threats such as Texas quarterback Arch Manning and Oregon’s Dante Moore joining Carr as potential game‑changers. Their performances will ultimately shape the narrative of the 2026 season.