Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Darian Mensah, Jeremiah Smith among top Heisman candidates as rankings update

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 15, 2026, 8:31 AM

Last updated Sep 15, 2026

Darian Mensah, Jeremiah Smith among top Heisman candidates as rankings update

Summary

The Heisman Trophy race is heating up as several players make their cases early in the season. Miami's Darian Mensah remains at the top after an impressive 14-of-15 passing for 252 yards and three touchdowns in a 77-7 win against Florida A&M. Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith climbs to second place following eight catches for 164 yards and a touchdown despite the Buckeyes' loss to Texas. Emerging star Kamario Taylor of Mississippi State also improves his status, with eight total touchdowns in two games. The updated rankings reflect performances from Week 2 as contenders position themselves ahead of Week 3.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Darian Mensah leads with a 91.1% completion rate after two games.
•Jeremiah Smith recorded 164 receiving yards in a loss against Texas.
•Kamario Taylor of Mississippi State has scored eight touchdowns in two games.
•Trinidad Chambliss remains a contender with solid performances for Ole Miss.
•Next games will further shape the Heisman race as Week 3 approaches.

Latest Updates

8:31 AMYahoo Sports — Heisman momentum meter: Fast-rising star joins familiar names in latest power rankings

What they're saying

"
Kamario Taylor is rising up the Heisman Trophy conversation. Here's a look at USA TODAY's latest Heisman momentum meter before Week 3 of the season.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Football