2025 Heisman Trophy Betting Odds & Top Picks: Arch Manning Favored, But Is He the Smart Bet?

It’s hard to believe that college football is right around the corner. And with games kicking off in August, fans will want to get some action on their predictions for the 2025 Heisman Trophy.

Last year, do-it-all unicorn Travis Hunter took home the award after a standout season at Colorado, playing both wide receiver and defensive back.

This year, Texas quarterback Arch Manning (+800) is the betting favorite to win the honors.

With the season so close to starting, let’s take a look at some of the top betting options. All odds are courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook.

Arch Manning (+800)

He’ll certainly have the hype — that goes without saying. But with Quinn Ewers in the rearview, head coach Steve Sarkisian has made it clear: the Texas Longhorns are all in on Manning moving forward.

Texas returns nine starters, making them one of the most experienced teams in college football. Five of those are on offense, which should ease Manning’s transition into his first full season as the starter.

The Longhorns open the season in Columbus against defending national champion Ohio State in a Cotton Bowl rematch. Despite being on the road in the Horseshoe, Texas is only a 2.5-point underdog in the noon kickoff.

If Manning pulls off the upset in Week 1, these +800 odds won’t last long.

Garrett Nussmeier (+900)

Tied with Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik at 9/1, Nussmeier feels like the better value — especially after throwing for more than 4,000 yards and 29 touchdowns in his first season at LSU.

This price reflects the potential for a Year 2 breakout — something LSU fans have seen before with players like Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels.

Jeremiah Smith (+1300)

If you’re backing a non-quarterback to win the Heisman, you’d usually want better odds than this. But that’s just not realistic this year.

Smith carried Ohio State to the national title as a true freshman and now steps into an even bigger role with Emeka Egbuka gone. He’ll be the clear top target in a Buckeyes offense that always puts up numbers.

If Ohio State produces a Heisman winner this year, expect it to be Smith — not five-star freshman quarterback Julian Sayin (+2000).

Drew Allar (+1800)

NFL scouts already love what they see in Penn State quarterback Drew Allar. If he can elevate the Nittany Lions’ offense, he has a real shot at bringing home the hardware.

Now entering his third year, the 21-year-old is one of the most experienced quarterbacks in the country. After a trip to the CFP semifinals last year, Allar’s focus must be on delivering consistent, week-to-week production to secure both Heisman consideration and a spot near the top of the 2026 NFL Draft board.