ESPN’s midseason Heisman Watch votes are in

On this date last year, Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. looked like the Heisman Trophy front-runner after defeating Oregon. In 2022, Hendon Hooker held the lead at midseason following Tennessee’s upset of Alabama. The year before, Kenneth Walker III and Matt Corral were surging. The Heisman race is a marathon, not a sprint, and a tricky one to forecast early in the season. ESPN writers voted on their top Heisman candidates at midseason, with 11 players receiving votes. Boise State’s star running back Jeanty is on track to break Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record. Colorado’s two-way star Hunter is a dynamic player at both receiver and cornerback. Miami’s quarterback Ward has exceeded expectations and is leading the ACC. Oregon’s quarterback Gabriel had a standout performance against Ohio State. Indiana’s quarterback Rourke has been a key player in the team’s stunning 6-0 start. Other players receiving votes include Army QB Bryson Daily, Alabama WR Ryan Williams, Navy QB Blake Horvath, Alabama QB Jalen Milroe, Ohio State WR Jeremiah Smith, and Pitt RB Desmond Reid.