Heisman Watch 2024: Gabriel, Dart, and Ward Lead the Race
- Dillon Gabriel had a strong individual performance in Oregon's season opener, completing 41 of 49 passes for 380 yards and two touchdowns.
- Jaxson Dart and Cam Ward also had impressive Week 1 performances, boosting their Heisman candidacies.
- The upcoming games present significant opportunities for these players to solidify their positions in the Heisman race.
As the 2024 college football season progresses, Jaxson Dart, Dillon Gabriel, and Cam Ward have emerged as frontrunners for the Heisman Trophy. Gabriel, now with the Oregon Ducks after transferring from Oklahoma, had an impressive individual performance in their season opener against Idaho, completing 41 of 49 passes for 380 yards and two touchdowns. However, the team's overall performance was less than stellar, leading to questions about his Heisman candidacy. Dart's strong showing in Week 1 has propelled him to the top of the Heisman odds, while Ward also made a significant impact in his debut with Miami, throwing for 385 yards and three touchdowns in a convincing win over Florida. Both players have the opportunity to further enhance their Heisman credentials in upcoming games. Carson Beck of Georgia and Jalen Milroe of Alabama are also in the mix, with Beck performing well in a dominant victory over Clemson and Milroe showcasing his dual-threat capabilities in a blowout win against Western Kentucky. Milroe's performance included three touchdown passes and two rushing touchdowns, indicating his potential as a serious contender. Quinn Ewers of Texas has a critical opportunity to elevate his Heisman stock in Week 2 as he leads the Longhorns against Michigan. His previous performance included three touchdown passes, and a strong showing against the defending national champions could significantly impact his candidacy. The competition for the Heisman Trophy is heating up as players look to make their mark in the early weeks of the season.