As the 2025 college football season reaches its midpoint, notable performances have emerged that could define award races and potentially shape the postseason landscape. In a strong showing, Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr. has claimed the title of midseason Heisman frontrunner. Boasting a remarkable 95.2 overall PFF grade, Bain leads all FBS edge defenders in run defense and ranks fifth in pass rush, significantly contributing to Miami’s success on the field.
Bain is also a strong contender for the Chuck Bednarik and Bronko Nagurski Awards for the best defensive player, underscoring his dominance as a key player for the Hurricanes. Ohio State’s Julian Sayin takes the lead as the top quarterback, receiving the Davey O’Brien Award. The redshirt freshman has an impressive 91.0 PFF passing grade and tops the nation with an 84.2% adjusted completion rate, highlighting his precision and impact on the game.
Additional notable award winners include Missouri’s Ahmad Hardy, who leads all FBS running backs with a 91.2 rushing grade and a staggering 783 rushing yards. USC’s Makai Lemon heads the Biletnikoff Award for best receiver with a PFF grade of 92.0 and 682 receiving yards to his credit. Baylor’s Michael Trigg leads tight ends in receiving yards, while Duke’s Brian Parker II earns the Outland Trophy for being the best interior lineman, recording a stellar 93.5 PFF grade without conceding a sack all season.
Defensively, Virginia Tech’s transfer, Delane, takes home the Jim Thorpe Award as best defensive back, showcasing an impressive PFF grade of 90.3 and limiting opponents significantly. Illinois’s Hank Beatty stands out as the most versatile player, making a name for himself both as a wide receiver and in punt returns.
Iowa proves once again its dominance in offensive line play, securing the Joe Moore Award with a remarkable 91.3 overall grade. Lastly, Indiana’s head coach earns Coach of the Year recognition for leading the Hoosiers to a perfect 6-0 record, marking a historic high ranking for the program.
With extraordinary talent on display from a variety of schools, the second half of the season promises intense competition and further surprises. The collective performances of these athletes not only enrich the narrative of college football but also set the stage for what is sure to be an exhilarating postseason.