Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith Leads Heisman Race Ahead of Big Ten Clash with Iowa

The Heisman Trophy race is heating up as Week 5 approaches, and for Iowa football fans, there is a marquee name coming to Kinnick Stadium this Saturday. Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith has surged to the top of the betting odds after a historic performance, and he will look to keep that momentum rolling against the Hawkeyes.

Smith is now the sportsbook favorite at +260 odds, according to DraftKings, after a career day against Illinois. The Buckeyes star hauled in 12 receptions for 217 yards and four touchdowns, becoming the first receiver in Ohio State history to post double-digit catches, 200-plus yards, and four scores in a single game.

Iowa fans will remember Smith from the 2024 meeting between these two programs. In that matchup, Smith caught four passes for 89 yards and a touchdown. The Hawkeyes will need a much better defensive effort this time around if they hope to slow down the nation's most explosive receiver.

Jeremiah Smith vs. Iowa: A Defining Moment for the Heisman Race

The Buckeyes travel to Iowa City for a 3:30 PM ET showdown against the #14 Hawkeyes. For Smith, it is another opportunity to cement his status as the Heisman frontrunner. For Iowa, it is a chance to make a statement on the national stage by shutting down one of college football's brightest stars.

Smith's 2026 season numbers are staggering: 33 receptions, 617 receiving yards, 18.7 yards per catch, and seven touchdowns through just four games. His breakout performance against Illinois was the kind of game that defines a Heisman campaign.

Two words. Jeremiah Smith. The Buckeyes star receiver is the new sports book favorite for the Heisman Trophy after scoring four touchdowns on 12 receptions and 217 yards against Illinois, all career-highs.

Ohio State's offense has been clicking on all cylinders, and Smith is the primary beneficiary. The Buckeyes will need that firepower against a physical Iowa defense that prides itself on stopping the pass.

Miami's Darian Mensah Remains a Top Contender

While Smith leads the odds, Miami quarterback Darian Mensah is right behind him at +380. Mensah has been nearly flawless this season, completing 88.7% of his passes for 1,211 yards and 14 touchdowns with zero interceptions.

The Hurricanes offense ranks first in the nation in total yards (588.8 per game) and passing efficiency (219.30). Mensah faces a tough test this week at Clemson, a game that could solidify his Heisman credentials or open the door for others.

Florida's Jadan Baugh: The Running Back Case

Florida running back Jadan Baugh made a major statement in Week 4, rushing for 142 yards and three touchdowns in a 52-28 upset win over #4 Ole Miss. Baugh now has 600 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns on the season, leading the nation in scores on the ground.

At +1100 odds, Baugh is the highest-ranked running back in the Heisman race. He has recorded four straight games with 100-plus rushing yards and at least two touchdowns. Florida faces #25 Missouri this week before a brutal stretch against #1 Texas and #2 Georgia.

Mississippi State's Kamario Taylor Faces Alabama Test

Mississippi State quarterback Kamario Taylor has been one of the breakout stars of the season, throwing for 1,192 yards with 15 total touchdowns and just two interceptions. At +500 odds, Taylor is squarely in the mix.

However, the Bulldogs face their toughest test yet with #7 Alabama coming to Starkville on Saturday. A strong performance against the Crimson Tide could vault Taylor up the board, while a poor showing could end his Heisman hopes.

Other Names to Watch in the Heisman Race

Several other players remain in contention as the season reaches its midpoint. Notre Dame's CJ Carr (+1150) has thrown for 963 yards with 11 total touchdowns. Alabama's Keelon Russell (+1600) has been red-hot, accounting for five touchdowns in last week's win over South Carolina.

Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss (+1200) dropped in the odds after the Rebels' loss to Florida, while Texas' Arch Manning (+3000) has struggled against Power 4 competition with more interceptions than touchdowns.

What This Means for Iowa Football

For Iowa fans, Saturday's game against Ohio State is more than just a Big Ten showdown. It is a chance to see the Heisman favorite in person and an opportunity for the Hawkeyes defense to make a national statement.

The Hawkeyes have built their reputation on stifling defense, and there is no bigger challenge in college football right now than slowing down Jeremiah Smith. If Iowa can contain him, the Hawkeyes could pull off the upset and reshape the Heisman race in the process.

Kickoff is set for 3:30 PM ET at Kinnick Stadium. The game will be broadcast nationally, giving Iowa a prime opportunity to showcase its program on the biggest stage.

Odds courtesy of DraftKings. Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.