College Football Rivalry Week: Heisman Candidates and Tiebreakers

Rivalry Week in college football is here, bringing with it not only intense matchups but also significant implications for the Heisman Trophy race and critical conference championship tiebreaker scenarios. According to SB Nation, the final weekend of the 2025 college football season will determine which teams make it to the Big 12 Championship Game, with Texas Tech and BYU leading the pack but still facing competition from Utah and Arizona State. Texas Tech boasts a 7-1 conference record and an overall record of 10-1, needing to win against West Virginia to secure their spot in Arlington. BYU, also at 7-1 in the Big 12, has a similar win-and-in scenario against UCF, while Utah and Arizona State are in must-win situations with various tiebreaker conditions to consider. As the rivalry games unfold, the stakes are incredibly high for these teams vying for a shot at the conference title.

In parallel, the Heisman Trophy race is heating up, with SB Nation highlighting nine candidates, including three front-runners, as they approach critical games this weekend. Fernando Mendoza from Indiana remains a favorite, looking to maintain his status in the race as he faces Purdue in the Old Oaken Bucket rivalry. His poised performance will be crucial, considering he has been idle recently. Ohio State's Julian Sayin is another contender, set to showcase his skills against Michigan in a game that not only affects his Heisman hopes but also the Big Ten Championship landscape. Sayin's efficiency against Rutgers previously has kept him in the conversation.

Diego Pavia of Vanderbilt also made headlines with a standout performance against Kentucky, throwing for 484 yards and five touchdowns. He faces a challenge against Tennessee, where another impressive showing could solidify his candidacy further. The Heisman race is notably competitive this year, with several candidates needing to capitalize on their rivalry matchups to make a lasting impression on voters.

Additionally, The Big Lead reports that the College Football Playoff rankings are evolving as teams fight for bowl spots and playoff chances. The rankings show Indiana at 11-0 and Ohio State also undefeated, both in strong positions as they head into rivalry week. With each game carrying significant weight, the outcomes will not only determine playoff positioning but also elevate or diminish the Heisman candidacies of those involved.

As rivalry week progresses, fans can expect thrilling matchups filled with drama and crucial implications across the board, from conference titles to the coveted Heisman Trophy. The combination of high stakes in both the Big 12 and the Heisman race makes this weekend one of the most anticipated in college football this season.