Anticipating Heisman Moments: When Each Contender Could Shine This Season

The “Heisman moment” is a crucial opportunity for top college football players to solidify their candidacies for the Heisman Trophy. This moment, often defined by a standout game or remarkable play, leaves a lasting impression on fans and voters alike. With a competitive 2024 season underway, here’s a look at when key players might seize their Heisman moments.

Ashton Jeanty | Boise State Potential Moment: Nov. 29 vs. Oregon State

Ashton Jeanty’s big Heisman moment may come on Nov. 29 against Oregon State, a game with nationwide viewership potential on FOX. The timing—a midday game on Black Friday—gives Jeanty a prominent stage to demonstrate his impact, especially with the Broncos likely to face off for the Mountain West title. A stellar performance here could spotlight Jeanty as a top contender.

Travis Hunter | Colorado Potential Moment: Nov. 29 vs. Oklahoma State

For Travis Hunter, the ultimate opportunity to showcase his skillset as both a wide receiver and cornerback could be against Oklahoma State. The Cowboys have struggled defensively, giving Hunter a prime chance to make big plays on both sides of the ball. With Oklahoma State’s defense vulnerable to the pass and prone to turnovers, Hunter’s unique dual-threat ability could shine in a marquee game.

Cam Ward | Miami (Fla.) Potential Moment: Dec. 7 in the ACC Championship

Cam Ward has a clear path to a defining Heisman moment if Miami reaches the ACC Championship. Likely facing a highly ranked opponent such as Clemson, Ward could make his case in front of a national audience. Leading the Hurricanes to a conference title could be the kind of season-defining moment that propels him firmly into Heisman contention.

Dillon Gabriel | Oregon Potential Moment: Nov. 9 vs. Maryland

Though Oregon’s schedule may not offer many ranked opponents, Dillon Gabriel has an ideal opportunity to deliver a standout performance against Maryland. The Terrapins’ defensive struggles against the pass provide Gabriel a chance to rack up significant passing yards and touchdowns. A huge statistical showing here could elevate Gabriel in the Heisman conversation, bringing back memories of past Oregon quarterbacks like Marcus Mariota.

Kurtis Rourke | Indiana Potential Moment: Nov. 23 at Ohio State

Kurtis Rourke’s potential Heisman moment could come in a high-stakes game against Ohio State. Should Indiana enter the matchup undefeated, Rourke would have a national platform to demonstrate his skills in what might be a top-10 matchup. A standout performance against the Buckeyes could be the Heisman-defining moment of his season.

Cade Klubnik | Clemson Potential Moment: Dec. 7 in the ACC Championship

Cade Klubnik has led Clemson with consistency this season, and an ACC Championship game appearance would give him an excellent chance to shine on a big stage. Facing an opponent like Miami could create a narrative-rich showdown, especially if he outplays another Heisman candidate. A conference championship performance would bolster his case as one of the top quarterbacks in college football.

Garrett Nussmeier | LSU Potential Moment: Nov. 9 vs. Alabama

Garrett Nussmeier has been a reliable force for LSU, and a matchup against Alabama would provide an ideal Heisman stage. This game, loaded with playoff implications, gives Nussmeier a chance to make a statement. A win over Alabama at home, combined with a strong statistical performance, could cement his Heisman credentials and elevate LSU’s playoff hopes.

Drew Allar | Penn State Potential Moment: Nov. 2 vs. Ohio State

For Drew Allar, Penn State’s game against Ohio State is likely to be the defining moment of his season. With the Buckeyes as one of the top teams in the nation, this game will be closely watched, especially if both teams are undefeated. A strong showing and a potential win would position Allar as a serious contender for the Heisman, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.

Bryson Daily | Army Potential Moment: Nov. 23 vs. Notre Dame

Army quarterback Bryson Daily’s Heisman moment may come when Notre Dame visits West Point. This game gives Daily the chance to shine against a ranked opponent, with national visibility. Should Daily lead Army to an upset victory, he could make a strong case for Heisman consideration before the season concludes.

Diego Pavia | Vanderbilt Potential Moment: Nov. 23 at LSU

After a remarkable season, Diego Pavia’s Heisman credentials could be solidified with a strong showing against LSU. Playing in Death Valley is challenging, but if Pavia leads Vanderbilt to a victory, especially after previous wins against top-ranked teams, his case would be difficult to ignore.

Eli Holstein | Pittsburgh Potential Moment: Nov. 16 vs. Clemson

As Pittsburgh remains undefeated, Eli Holstein has a golden opportunity for a Heisman moment against Clemson. A victory over a top ACC opponent could boost his resume significantly, giving him the recognition needed to secure a spot among the Heisman finalists.

Blake Horvath | Navy Potential Moment: Oct. 26 vs. Notre Dame

Blake Horvath’s best chance at a Heisman moment comes in Navy’s matchup against Notre Dame at MetLife Stadium. An undefeated Navy team facing a top opponent like Notre Dame in a major venue could provide Horvath with an impressive stage. If he leads Navy to an upset victory, Horvath could see his stock rise significantly among Heisman voters.

As the season progresses, each of these players will have the chance to prove their Heisman worth. For these contenders, seizing the right moment could be the key to bringing home college football’s most prestigious award.