The competition for the prestigious Heisman Trophy is intensifying as conference play kicks off, with Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel experiencing a dip in his odds following a challenging outing against UCLA. Meanwhile, Alabama’s Jalen Milroe has surged to the forefront of the Heisman conversation after a standout performance.
Gabriel entered the 2024 season as a Heisman favorite, but his recent showing against the Bruins on September 29 raised concerns. Despite completing 31 of 41 passes for 280 yards and three touchdowns, Gabriel’s chances took a hit after he threw a critical interception in the second quarter. This costly mistake was returned 96 yards for a touchdown by former Duck defensive back Bryan Addison, shifting the momentum in favor of UCLA.
Reflecting on the play, Gabriel remarked, “I probably shouldn’t have done it having a guaranteed three there; throwing it away probably would have been the smarter move. A play like that happens, but we come right back three drives later in a scramble drill. I think that shows trust and belief in one another.”
The intercepted pass was intended for Tez Johnson, who had an impressive game with 11 catches for 121 yards and two touchdowns. However, Johnson’s fall during the route allowed Addison to make the critical interception.
While Heisman voters typically frown upon interceptions, Gabriel’s overall performance this season cannot be overlooked. He has thrown for 1,192 yards with nine touchdowns and boasts an impressive total quarterback rating of 80.2 from ESPN. Oregon head coach Dan Lanning praised Gabriel’s performance, stating, “I think Dillon had a really positive performance excluding one play. He’s continued to prove to be a savvy quarterback.”
As of week five, the Heisman Trophy race has become increasingly competitive. Milroe has emerged as the frontrunner after a remarkable game against Georgia, completing 27 of 33 passes for 374 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Additionally, he rushed for 117 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating his versatility and playmaking ability.
Travis Hunter of Colorado also made headlines over the weekend, making a significant impact in the Buffaloes’ 48-21 victory over UCF, even posing for the Heisman after intercepting a pass. Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty continues to showcase his prowess, becoming the only FBS player this season with four rushing touchdowns in multiple games. In his latest performance, Jeanty rushed for 259 yards and four touchdowns against Washington State.
Current Heisman Trophy Odds (BetMGM):
– Jalen Milroe, Alabama: +175
– Cam Ward, Miami: +500
– Travis Hunter, Colorado: +700
– Ashton Jeanty, Boise State: +900
– Dillon Gabriel, Oregon: +1400
– Nico Iamaleava, Tennessee: +1400
– Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss: +2000
– Quinn Ewers, Texas: +2500
– Carson Beck, Georgia: +2500
– Miller Moss, USC: +2500
As the season progresses, the Heisman race will continue to evolve, and players like Milroe and Gabriel will need to capitalize on their opportunities to maintain their status among college football’s elite.
