Memorable September Heisman winners show early-season highs and subsequent lows
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 30, 2026, 1:53 PM
Last updated Sep 30, 2026
September Heisman winners often capture early-season attention with impressive performances before the challenges of conference play. Denard Robinson of Michigan, who dazzled with record-breaking totals, faced a downturn as his team lost six of eight games following a strong start in 2010. Geno Smith from West Virginia showcased dominance in 2012 but fell from favor after consecutive losses in October, despite beginning the season as a top Heisman contender. Kenny Hill of Texas A&M also experienced a promising start in 2014, setting school records, yet stumbled against ranked opponents, leading to a series of setbacks. The phenomenon highlights the unpredictability of college football, especially as the competition intensifies.
- •Robinson set Michigan’s total yards record against UConn in 2010.
- •Smith threw for 1,728 yards and 20 touchdowns in September 2012.
- •Hill broke Johnny Manziel's school passing record in his first start.
- •Robinson ended 2010 as eighth in Heisman voting after a strong start.
- •Smith's early dominance didn't prevent a five-game losing streak.
- 1:53 PMYahoo Sports — Looking back at three memorable ‘September Heisman’ winners
"One of the most fascinating phenomenons in college football is the September Heisman Trophy winner. He’s usually a quarterback, he’s usually putting up video game numbers against overmatched early-season opponents, and he usually has the sport buzzing about a trophy that won’t be handed out for another three months. Then October arrives. Conference play begins,…
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