Heisman Trophy watch 2026 features top preseason candidates

The 2026 Heisman Trophy race is shaping up to be competitive, with several standout players highlighted as preseason favorites. Among them are Sam Leavitt from LSU, Alabama's unnamed starter, and USC's Jayden Maiava. Each contender brings unique strengths, from offensive fireworks to potential standout moments in high-stakes games. The analysis suggests that while certain players are expected to shine, surprises are common in the Heisman race, with notable performances potentially reshaping the as the season progresses. Coaches and teams are preparing for the upcoming college football season, which will heavily influence these predictions.

• 6:09 AMYahoo Sports — College Football Heisman Trophy Watch 2026: Preseason Top 12 Predictions