The heisman ceremony 2025 delivered college football’s most prestigious individual award during a nationally televised event in New York City, bringing together the sport’s top performers after a dramatic regular season. The annual ceremony once again served as both a celebration of excellence and a reflection of how the modern college game continues to evolve.
Held in mid-December, the ceremony marked the official conclusion of the individual awards calendar and provided a national stage for the four finalists whose performances defined the 2025 season.
Where and When the Ceremony Took Place
The ceremony was hosted in New York City at the Appel Room at Jazz at Lincoln Center, a venue long associated with the award’s modern-era presentations. The event aired in prime time on Saturday night, drawing fans from across the country and placing the spotlight firmly on college football just as postseason play approached.
New York has remained central to the Heisman tradition for decades, symbolizing the national scope of the award and its place beyond conference boundaries. Finalists arrived earlier in the week for scheduled appearances, interviews, and official events tied to the ceremony.
The 2025 Heisman Finalists
Four players were invited to New York City, representing a cross-section of programs, conferences, and offensive styles. The finalist list reflected the continued importance of quarterback play while also highlighting the enduring value of elite production at running back.
Fernando Mendoza, Quarterback, Indiana
Fernando Mendoza entered the ceremony as one of the most talked-about players in the country. His season helped redefine expectations for Indiana football. Under his leadership, the Hoosiers finished the regular season undefeated at 13–0, captured the Big Ten championship, and earned the top seed in the College Football Playoff.
Mendoza’s numbers matched the moment. He completed 71.5 percent of his passes, throwing for 2,980 yards and 33 touchdowns. His mobility added another dimension, contributing 240 rushing yards and six additional scores. Beyond statistics, Mendoza’s composure in high-pressure games became a defining storyline of the season, particularly during conference play.
His recognition during awards week extended beyond the Heisman ceremony, reinforcing how dominant his season had been across the national landscape.
Diego Pavia, Quarterback, Vanderbilt
Diego Pavia’s presence among the finalists symbolized one of the most compelling stories of the year. Vanderbilt, a program rarely associated with national awards, surged behind Pavia’s leadership and offensive consistency.
He set a school record with 3,192 passing yards while throwing 27 touchdowns. Pavia’s dual-threat ability allowed Vanderbilt to remain competitive week after week, and his performances helped elevate the program into broader national conversations. His Heisman invitation represented both personal achievement and a milestone moment for the school.
Julian Sayin, Quarterback, Ohio State
Julian Sayin continued Ohio State’s long tradition of elite quarterback play. His 2025 campaign featured 3,329 passing yards and 31 touchdowns, numbers that reflected both efficiency and durability across a demanding schedule.
Sayin’s season stood out for its consistency. He managed games effectively, limited costly mistakes, and delivered strong performances against top-tier opponents. In a year with several standout quarterbacks nationwide, his steady command of Ohio State’s offense kept the Buckeyes firmly in contention throughout the season.
Jeremiyah Love, Running Back, Notre Dame
Jeremiyah Love was the lone non-quarterback finalist, earning his spot through production that could not be ignored. He rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns while contributing in the passing game, finishing the season with 21 total touchdowns.
Love’s impact extended beyond raw numbers. He delivered multiple high-profile performances, often serving as the focal point of Notre Dame’s offense. His ability to control tempo, break long runs, and score in critical moments set him apart and underscored why running backs can still command national attention in a quarterback-driven era.
How the Heisman Voting Works
The Heisman Trophy is decided through a broad voting process designed to represent the national scope of college football. Voters include sports media members from different regions, former Heisman winners, and a fan vote component.
Each voter ranks candidates on their ballot, with points assigned based on position. The cumulative total determines the winner, while the top four vote-getters receive invitations to the ceremony in New York. This system emphasizes both individual excellence and nationwide recognition rather than regional success alone.
What Happens During Heisman Weekend
By the time the trophy is presented on stage, finalists have already participated in several days of structured events. Heisman weekend typically includes official photo sessions, press conferences, televised interviews, and ceremonial rehearsals.
These activities allow fans to hear directly from the players, learn about their backgrounds, and revisit defining moments from the season. For many viewers, the ceremony offers one final opportunity to reflect on the regular season before attention fully shifts to bowl games and playoff matchups.
The Broadcast Experience
The live broadcast blended analysis, storytelling, and real-time reaction. Each finalist received a dedicated segment highlighting their journey, key performances, and personal story. Family members and coaches were often featured, adding emotional context to the on-field accomplishments.
The ceremony also included appearances by past winners, reinforcing the historical significance of the award. The structure of the broadcast ensured that the focus remained on the finalists while also celebrating the broader tradition of the Heisman Trophy.
Why the 2025 Ceremony Stood Out
The 2025 finalist group reflected several major trends in college football. Quarterbacks once again dominated the conversation, showcasing how passing efficiency and offensive leadership remain central to the modern game.
At the same time, the inclusion of a running back emphasized that exceptional production at any position can still earn national recognition. The diversity of programs represented—from traditional powerhouses to emerging contenders—highlighted the expanding competitive balance across the sport.
Indiana’s rise to the top of the rankings, Vanderbilt’s breakthrough season, Ohio State’s sustained excellence, and Notre Dame’s offensive balance collectively shaped one of the more compelling Heisman races in recent memory.
The Ceremony’s Place in the College Football Calendar
The Heisman ceremony serves as a bridge between the regular season and the postseason. While the award focuses on individual achievement, it also acts as a summary of the year’s defining storylines.
For players, the honor becomes part of a lasting legacy. For programs, it offers national visibility and validation. For fans, it provides closure to months of debate and discussion before bowl season and playoff games take center stage.
Life After the Ceremony
Once the ceremony concludes, finalists quickly return to team responsibilities. Many prepare for bowl games or College Football Playoff appearances, while others begin evaluating future opportunities. The winner joins a historic lineage dating back to 1935, with their name permanently associated with college football excellence.
The trophy itself becomes a symbol not just of individual success, but of a season that left a lasting mark on the sport.
Why the Heisman Ceremony Remains Relevant
The heisman ceremony 2025 reaffirmed why the award continues to hold national significance. Beyond statistics and rankings, the ceremony captures the human side of college football—dedication, leadership, and the pursuit of excellence at the highest level of the game.
Each year, the event offers a moment of reflection, recognizing players whose performances shaped Saturdays across the country and defined the narrative of the season.