Oregon Ducks quarterback Dillon Gabriel delivered a standout performance in the team’s win over Oregon State, but is it enough to revive his Heisman Trophy hopes? Meanwhile, Colorado Buffaloes’ star Travis Hunter has seen a significant rise in his Heisman odds.
In week three, as the No. 9 Oregon Ducks hit their stride against the Oregon State Beavers, Gabriel showcased his best game of the season. Entering the year as a top Heisman contender due to his talent and the offensive system designed by Ducks’ coordinator Will Stein, Gabriel’s early season performance fell short against Idaho and Boise State, causing his Heisman buzz to wane.
According to On3, Gabriel is currently outside the top 10 Heisman Trophy candidates, with Cam Ward of Miami leading the rankings and Alabama’s Jalen Milroe in second. Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty also ranks higher, sitting at No. 4 after scoring nine touchdowns in his first two games, despite a bye week in week three. Jeanty has the second most rushing yards nationally and is tied for the most touchdowns.
On the other hand, Colorado’s Travis Hunter has surged into the Heisman conversation. Despite a tough loss to Nebraska, Hunter made a strong statement with 13 catches for 100 yards and two touchdowns, alongside an interception. His all-around performance has positioned him as one of the standout players in college football.
ESPN Bet’s odds present a more optimistic view for Gabriel, listing him with the fifth-best chance to win the Heisman, trailing only behind Ward, Milroe, Dart, and Nico Iamaleava. Gabriel’s performance against Oregon State included 20 completions on 24 attempts, totaling 291 yards and two touchdowns, with a notable 54-yard touchdown run.
After the game, Gabriel reflected on the Ducks’ improvements. “Having explosive plays helps,” Gabriel said. “We struggled with that early on, but now we’re seeing it more. A four-play drive is simpler than a 15-play drive. Explosive plays build momentum and rhythm.”
While Gabriel did not make the top 10 in On3’s latest rankings, his impressive showing earned him an honorable mention and reminded voters of his potential as a serious Heisman contender.
“We made adjustments day-to-day in practice to benefit each position group and the team as a whole,” Gabriel noted. “We’ll keep refining our formula and building on it.”
As the season progresses, both Gabriel and Hunter will be key players to watch in the evolving Heisman race.
