After Week 9 of the 2024 college football season, the races for both the Heisman Trophy and College Football Playoff are heating up with unexpected twists and emerging stars. In the Heisman conversation, Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel and Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty have captivated fans and analysts alike with their exceptional performances.
Meanwhile, the national title picture sees perennial powerhouses Ohio State, Georgia, and Texas jockeying for position atop the rankings. However, Oregon, whose resilience in the face of adversity, has made them an intriguing bet for those looking beyond the obvious favorites. As we dive into the heart of conference play and approach the final stretch of the regular season, let’s examine the standout players and teams that are shaping the landscape of college football in 2024.
All odds are accurate as of timestamp. For the latest odds go to ESPN BET.
Heisman race: Gabriel tops list of contenders
Dillon Gabriel, QB, Oregon Ducks (+250)
Last week: +400
Gabriel has led Oregon to a perfect 7-0 start, putting them in contention for the Big Ten title and the College Football Playoff as the current No. 1 team in the country. In perhaps their biggest win of the season over Ohio State, Gabriel threw for 341 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for a score in a 32-31 victory.
He has over an 80% completion percentage in four games, while moving to No. 2 all-time on the NCAA passing yards and passing touchdown lists. Now in his sixth collegiate season, Gabriel has showcased career-long excellence, making it very difficult to any identify flaws in Oregon’s offense.
His strengths, combined with his team’s success and consistent high-level performance, make Gabriel a strong candidate for the Heisman Trophy. His ability to excel in high-pressure situations, remarkable efficiency, and role in Oregon’s successful transition to the Big Ten further solidify his position as the current Heisman favorite.
Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State Broncos (+450)
Last week: +225
Jeanty is now has the fourth-shortest odds to win the Heisman Trophy after being the frontrunner for the past couple of weeks. He’s coming off a 128-yard performance, including a game-winning touchdown in Boise State’s 29-24 victory over UNLV. Despite this solid outing, headlines after the game claimed he “didn’t play up to his standards,” highlighting Jeanty’s lofty expectations from his previous dominant performances. The fact that a 128-yard game is now considered a sub-par game for Jeanty speaks volumes about his exceptional season.
While Jeanty might not have been as dominant in Week 9 as in previous outings, his performance was a key part in keeping Boise State at 6-1 overall and undefeated (3-0) in Mountain West conference play. His dip in Heisman odds is more likely because of the increased competition from other candidates, particularly quarterbacks from top-ranked teams.
Jeanty’s Heisman case was partly built on his pace to potentially break Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record. If he has fallen off that pace, it could negatively impact his odds of being a serious contender. However, Jeanty still remains a strong candidate in my eyes and his ability to consistently deliver in crucial moments keeps him firmly in the Heisman conversation.
Title Hunt: Latest national championship odds and key movers
The top three teams to win the national championship remain the same after Week 9. No. 2 Georgia remains the betting favorite (+360) followed by No. 4 Ohio State (+425) then No. 1 Oregon third in the odds (+475).
I have questions about both the Bulldogs and Buckeyes. There are concerns along Georgia’s defensive front, where injuries are already a factor. Georgia’s secondary has some leaks, while the offensive line has also shown vulnerabilities. The current version of Georgia is inconsistent and not executing at the elite level of past teams regardless of opponent or game situation.
Ohio State has talented options, but don’t have a proven star quarterback. Will Howard has been solid but not exceptional. The Buckeyes’ loss to Oregon and a narrow 21-17 win over Nebraska could be early indicators of a team that is not as strong as originally thought.
Bet to consider: Oregon to win the National Championship (+475)
Oregon stands out as the team to beat in the expanded 12-team playoff format. While backing the No. 1 team might seem unoriginal, the Ducks have provided answers to potential questions, leaving little room for doubt.
Oregon’s ability to maintain a high level of performance following its big-time win over Ohio State is a significant indicator of championship potential. The Ducks have been dominant in wins over Purdue (35-0) and Illinois (35-9), demonstrating exceptional mental toughness and focus. While many teams experience a letdown after a big emotional win, Oregon has maintained its intensity week after week.
The Ducks have executed on both sides of the ball across multiple games and are a well-coached team hitting its stride at the right time. Head coach Dan Lanning and his staff deserve credit for keeping the team focused and prepared, a hallmark of a championship-caliber program. At +475, taking Oregon to win the title now is an attractive bet considering that price could be gone if other teams take a hit, and the Ducks continue to dominate.
