AUSTIN (KXAN) — The first week of college football begins Aug. 30, which makes it appropriate to discuss the Heisman Trophy odds. The award goes to the most outstanding player in college football, and Longhorns starting quarterback Arch Manning is at the top of the list.
Stepping into the starting role as quarterback to begin a season at the University of Texas for the first time, after waiting his turn as a backup for his first two seasons on the 40 Acres.
2025 Heisman Trophy odds via FanDuel
- Arch Manning, +700
- Cade Klubnik, +900
- Garrett Nussmeier, +900
- Jeremiah Smith, +1200
- LeNorris Sellers, +1700
In those two years, Manning made two starts, both in 2024 against UTSA and Mississippi State. Days before his 2025 campaign, the Louisiana native is the favorite to win this year’s Heisman race. Manning realizes he doesn’t quite have the on-field experience as the other candidates, and he’s focused on what he can do for the team.
“I’m definitely honored that people think that, but I haven’t done anything yet,” Manning said in Tuesday when talking with reporters.
That hasn’t stopped Las Vegas odds makers from putting him at the top of the list. FanDuel has Manning as the favorite at +700 odds, meaning if you were to place a $10 wager on Manning to win, you could earn $70. ESPN’s sportsbook, ESPN BET, also has Manning as the favorite at +600, as does MGM.
What makes Manning’s ranking on the list interesting are the players beneath him. Cade Klubnik (Clemson), Garrett Nussmeier (LSU), and Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State). All of which were starters in the 2024 season and made significant impacts on their respective teams, while maintaining popularity.
Odds will change as the season moves along, so if Manning starts to get hot, expect him to stay the favorite to win college football’s most prestigious individual award.