2025 Heisman Watch: Garrett Nussmeier Leads Pack, Jeremiah Smith Close Behind

Week 1 of the college football season is where preseason predictions turn into reality. While some stars put together outstanding performances, others fell short of expectations.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning couldn't find a rhythm in a loss to No. 3 Ohio State, which won despite a quiet day from wide receiver Jeremiah Smith. Meanwhile, LSU's Garrett Nussmeier and Oklahoma's John Mateer were two quarterbacks who pushed themselves atop the Heisman race with impressive Week 1 showings.

Here is a look at our 2025 Heisman Watch following the first full Saturday of the college football season.

Garrett Nussmeier threw for 230 yards and one touchdown in Week 1. (Photo by Kristen Young/LSU/University Images via Getty Images)

In a battle between two Heisman candidates, Nussmeier outplayed Clemson's Cade Klubnik. The Tigers QB completed 28 of 38 passes for 230 yards and one touchdown as LSU won its first game of the season, 17-10. 

Despite the game being a low-scoring affair, Nussmeier was solid in his season debut. His best moments came during an 11-play, 73-yard game-winning drive at the start of the fourth quarter.

Jeremiah Smith led Ohio State in receiving yards as a freshman. (Photo by Jason Mowry/Getty Images)

Smith opened his sophomore season with six catches for 43 yards in Ohio State's 14-7 win over No. 1-ranked Texas. It was a relatively quiet outing by his standards, as he and new starting quarterback Julian Sayin continued to build chemistry.

Sayin missed Smith on a few throws, and Smith recorded a couple of drops. Still, with the Buckeyes’ defense leading the way, a modest showing from Smith was enough to help secure a statement win.

John Mateer transferred from Washington State to Oklahoma for his junior year.