Each finalist has had an exceptional season, displaying remarkable skill and leadership on the field.
Caleb Williams, the dynamic quarterback for USC, has led the Trojans to a remarkable turnaround, throwing for over 4,000 yards and 37 touchdowns with only 4 interceptions. His athleticism and playmaking ability have made him one of the most exciting players to watch in the country.
Max Duggan, TCU’s charismatic quarterback, has guided the Horned Frogs to an undefeated season and a berth in the College Football Playoff. Despite missing time due to injury, Duggan has demonstrated resilience, poise, and an uncanny ability to lift his team when it matters most.
Stetson Bennett IV, Georgia’s unassuming quarterback, has defied expectations by leading the Bulldogs to back-to-back national championships. Bennett’s calm demeanor, clutch performances, and leadership have made him a beloved figure in Athens.
C.J. Stroud, Ohio State’s talented signal-caller, has been a model of consistency, throwing for over 3,600 yards and 37 touchdowns with only 6 interceptions. His accuracy, arm strength, and decision-making have made him one of the top quarterback prospects in the NFL draft.
| Player | Passing Yards | Passing Touchdowns | Interceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caleb Williams | 4,075 | 37 | 4 |
| Max Duggan | 3,321 | 30 | 4 |
| Stetson Bennett IV | 3,425 | 20 | 6 |
| C.J. Stroud | 3,688 | 37 | 6 |
While individual statistics are important, the Heisman Trophy also considers the impact a player has on his team’s success.
USC, led by Williams, has gone from a 4-8 record in 2021 to a Pac-12 Championship and a berth in the College Football Playoff. Williams’ leadership has transformed the Trojans into a national contender.
TCU, with Duggan at the helm, has emerged as one of the biggest surprises in college football. The Horned Frogs’ undefeated regular season and Big 12 Championship have been a testament to Duggan’s leadership and the team’s resilience.
Georgia, with Bennett as their quarterback, has established themselves as the dominant force in college football. Two consecutive national championships, with Bennett as a key figure, have cemented their legacy as one of the greatest teams in the sport’s history.
Ohio State, led by Stroud, has been a perennial contender in recent years. Stroud’s consistent performances and the Buckeyes’ Big Ten Championship appearance highlight their ability to challenge for the ultimate prize.
The Heisman Trophy race is often a subject of debate and discussion. Some argue that team success and impact should be the primary criteria, while others emphasize individual statistics and dominance.
Proponents of team success point to the fact that a player’s performance is often directly tied to the success of his team. Duggan’s leadership and impact on TCU’s undefeated season, for example, could be seen as a strong argument in his favor.
On the other hand, advocates of individual statistics contend that a player’s personal accomplishments should be the primary consideration. Williams’ exceptional passing numbers and Stroud’s consistency could make a compelling case for either player.
The 2023 Heisman Trophy race is one of the most intriguing in recent memory. Each of the four finalists has a compelling case, based on their individual brilliance, team success, and leadership. Ultimately, the decision of who will take home the prestigious award will be a complex one that weighs various perspectives and factors.
Regardless of who wins, the 2023 Heisman Trophy finalists have shown the world the depth and brilliance of college football. They represent the best of the best and have inspired countless fans with their extraordinary abilities and unwavering dedication to the sport.
