Major College Football QBs Who Could Win the Heisman Trophy in 2025 Are Named by Paul Finebaum.
The Heisman Trophy, awarded annually to the most outstanding player in college football, has been dominated by quarterbacks over the years. With the 2025 college football season on the horizon, Paul Finebaum, the renowned college football analyst, has pointed to several quarterbacks who could make a serious run at the prestigious award. These players not only have the skill sets to dominate on the field but also play for high-profile programs that give them a national platform to showcase their talents.
In this article, we will break down the top candidates identified by Finebaum as having a legitimate chance to win the Heisman Trophy in 2025. From established stars to potential breakout players, the list is diverse, representing a mix of experience and raw talent.
1. Caleb Williams – USC
Current Status: Senior (2025)
Why He’s a Heisman Candidate: Caleb Williams has already established himself as one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in college football. After winning the Heisman Trophy in 2023, Williams enters the 2025 season with a chance to become the first two-time Heisman winner since Archie Griffin in 1975 and 1976. His performance in 2024 will be a significant indicator of his chances in 2025, but as Finebaum points out, if Williams continues to elevate his game, he will be nearly impossible to ignore.
Williams is a dual-threat quarterback, known for his ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground. His arm strength, mobility, and football IQ have already earned him comparisons to some of the greatest quarterbacks in college football history. He led USC to a high-powered offense under Lincoln Riley, a system designed to showcase a quarterback’s skills, and Williams thrived in it.
As USC continues to improve and his stock rises, Williams will be a frontrunner not only for the Heisman but also for the first overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Key Strengths:
- Strong arm and deep ball accuracy
- Elite mobility and vision
- Proven leadership and poise in big games
2. Drake Maye – North Carolina
Current Status: Junior (2025)
Why He’s a Heisman Candidate: Drake Maye is an intriguing candidate for the 2025 Heisman Trophy. After a stellar 2023 season, Maye’s stock has skyrocketed. With a combination of size, athleticism, and a high football IQ, Maye has the potential to be a Heisman finalist if he continues to build on his success in the upcoming season. As Paul Finebaum highlights, Maye’s ability to throw both deep and accurately on short to medium routes makes him a dangerous weapon.
Maye is a prototypical NFL quarterback in terms of physicality, standing at 6’5” and possessing an incredible arm. If he can lead North Carolina to more wins in the competitive ACC, especially in the face of top-tier competition like Clemson and Florida State, Maye could make a strong push for the Heisman.
Key Strengths:
- Prototypical size for an NFL quarterback
- Exceptional accuracy and decision-making
- Strong pocket presence and ability to extend plays
3. J.J. McCarthy – Michigan
Current Status: Senior (2025)
Why He’s a Heisman Candidate: J.J. McCarthy’s rise at Michigan has been impressive, and with a potential national championship run in 2025, he could find himself in Heisman contention. Finebaum has noted that McCarthy’s dual-threat capabilities and strong leadership could make him a top Heisman contender. His blend of athleticism and poise is critical to Michigan’s success in recent seasons, and McCarthy’s development has put him on the national radar.
After leading Michigan to the College Football Playoff in 2024, McCarthy will have every opportunity to shine in the 2025 season. The Wolverines’ powerful running game, combined with McCarthy’s ability to stretch the field with his arm, will make Michigan an offense to fear in 2025. If McCarthy can improve his consistency and elevate his play even further, he could be a strong candidate for the Heisman.
Key Strengths:
- Dual-threat ability
- Deep ball accuracy and timing
- High football IQ and leadership
4. Quinn Ewers – Texas
Current Status: Junior (2025)
Why He’s a Heisman Candidate: Quinn Ewers is a name that has been buzzing for quite some time. After transferring to Texas and showing flashes of brilliance in 2024, Ewers has the tools to be a top Heisman contender in 2025. Finebaum has pointed out that if Ewers can maintain consistency throughout the 2025 season, Texas could be back in the conversation for the College Football Playoff, giving him a great chance to capture the Heisman.
Ewers possesses all the physical tools required to be an elite quarterback. His arm strength, accuracy, and leadership qualities set him apart from many other quarterbacks in the country. Texas’ offense has the talent to be explosive, and Ewers will need to continue his development to put the Longhorns in the playoff conversation. With a strong supporting cast, Ewers could be primed for a breakout season in 2025.
Key Strengths:
- Elite arm strength and deep ball accuracy
- Mobility to escape pressure
- High ceiling with room for growth
5. Bo Nix – Oregon
Current Status: Senior (2025)
Why He’s a Heisman Candidate: Bo Nix, the veteran quarterback from Oregon, has revived his career after transferring from Auburn to the Ducks. Under the guidance of head coach Dan Lanning and offensive coordinator Will Stein, Nix has thrived, showcasing both his passing and running abilities. Nix’s performance in 2024 could propel him into the Heisman conversation for 2025, especially if he leads Oregon to a top-10 finish.
Finebaum has expressed that Nix’s experience and ability to make big plays under pressure make him a legitimate Heisman contender. His success in a high-powered offense that emphasizes quick decisions and precision passing will give Nix every opportunity to stand out on the national stage.
Key Strengths:
- Experience in big games
- Strong dual-threat ability
- Excellent decision-making and leadership
6. Tyler Van Dyke – Miami
Current Status: Senior (2025)
Why He’s a Heisman Candidate: Tyler Van Dyke has long been a name to watch in the ACC, and 2025 could be his year to break out on the national stage. After an inconsistent 2024 season, Van Dyke enters the 2025 season with a chance to prove that he is one of the elite quarterbacks in college football. If Miami’s offense takes the next step under head coach Mario Cristobal, Van Dyke could make a serious run at the Heisman Trophy.
Van Dyke has all the tools, from a quick release to deep ball accuracy. With a strong supporting cast and an improved offensive line, Van Dyke could take Miami back to the national spotlight, and if he leads them to a major bowl game or playoff appearance, his Heisman candidacy will be impossible to ignore.
Key Strengths:
- Quick release and deep ball accuracy
- High football IQ and poise in the pocket
- Experience in high-pressure situations
7. Hudson Card – Purdue
Current Status: Senior (2025)
Why He’s a Heisman Candidate: Hudson Card, who transferred to Purdue after a few years at Texas, has the opportunity to become a breakout star in 2025. Paul Finebaum sees Card’s potential as he steps into the starting role at Purdue, a program with a rich history of developing quarterbacks. While the Big Ten might be crowded with star players, Card’s ability to lead Purdue to an above-average finish could make him a surprise contender.
Card’s accuracy and leadership qualities make him a natural fit for Purdue’s offense, which has produced several successful quarterbacks over the years. If Card performs well and leads Purdue to a high-profile bowl game, he could be in the conversation for Heisman honors.
Key Strengths:
- Accurate passer with great mechanics
- Leadership and poise in clutch moments
- Ability to fit into a well-established offensive system
