The first month of college football has revealed an impressive trove of playmakers that have ascended to the top of BetMGM’s Heisman Trophy odds market, according to a report published October 14, 2026. The market has seen significant movement, with some players known as contenders before the season and others becoming household names within weeks.
Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith is currently the top favorite at -220, implying a 69% chance to win the award. Smith is the most popular Heisman ticket at BetMGM, accounting for 9.9% of tickets and 18.8% of money.
In contrast, Miami quarterback Darian Mensah is priced at +1000. While Mensah led the FBS in QBR, his candidacy faces scrutiny because Miami has only played one team ranked in the SP+ top 60 through the first half of the season. His relevance may depend on a game against Notre Dame scheduled for Nov. 7.
Notre Dame quarterback CJ Carr is currently at +1200 after accounting for five total touchdowns against North Carolina in Week 5. Carr and the Irish are scheduled to travel to Provo for a game against BYU this week.
Georgia quarterback Gunner Stockton has moved to +1500 following a road win against Alabama. Stockton recorded 249 passing yards, one passing touchdown, and one rushing touchdown in that matchup. Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell also sits at +1500, and Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss is listed at +1500.
Other notable players in the market include Ohio State's Julian Sayin at +3500 and Arch Manning of Texas at +4000. Manning was the No. 2 most popular Heisman bet as of Oct. 5, accounting for 8.2% of all Heisman bets and 7.5% of all handle. Other players listed include Oklahoma State's Drew Mestemaker at +4000, Mississippi State's Kamario Taylor at +4000, and Miami's Malachi Toney at +5000.
