Will the Texas Longhorns’ Arch Manning Win the Heisman Trophy? The Oregon Ducks’ Dante Moore’s Odds
College football is always full of intrigue, and the 2025 season promises to be no different. Two of the most talked-about young quarterbacks, Arch Manning of the Texas Longhorns and Dante Moore of the Oregon Ducks, are generating considerable buzz in Heisman Trophy discussions. The Heisman, awarded annually to the most outstanding player in college football, is one of the sport’s most coveted honors. Let’s take a closer look at Manning and Moore, analyzing their potential paths to Heisman glory and how their performances could shape the season.
Arch Manning: The Pedigree and Expectations
Arch Manning entered the college football scene under the brightest spotlight imaginable. As the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, both Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks, and the grandson of Archie Manning, a College Football Hall of Famer, Arch has football royalty in his blood. His commitment to Texas in 2022 sent shockwaves through the college football world, signaling the Longhorns’ return as a potential powerhouse.
Manning’s freshman season at Texas was one of promise. While he started the season as a backup, his poise, arm talent, and football IQ quickly earned him the starting job by midseason. By the end of his freshman campaign, Manning had thrown for over 3,000 yards with 25 touchdowns and just 7 interceptions. His ability to perform under pressure and lead game-winning drives was reminiscent of his famous uncles.
Going into the 2025 season, Manning has a stronger supporting cast. The Longhorns boast a talented offensive line, a deep receiving corps, and a potent running game. If Manning can build on his freshman season and lead Texas to a Big 12 Championship or even a College Football Playoff berth, his Heisman candidacy will gain serious momentum.
However, the pressure is immense. The expectations surrounding Manning are higher than those for most quarterbacks, and every game will be scrutinized. For Manning to win the Heisman, he must not only post impressive stats but also deliver signature moments in high-stakes games. A matchup against Alabama early in the season and the Red River Showdown against Oklahoma will be critical opportunities for Manning to solidify his Heisman case.
Dante Moore: The Rising Star in Eugene
Dante Moore, the dynamic quarterback for the Oregon Ducks, is another name to watch in the Heisman race. Moore’s journey to Eugene began with a stellar high school career in Detroit, where he was rated as a five-star recruit and one of the top quarterbacks in the 2023 class. Moore chose Oregon over a host of other powerhouse programs, drawn by the Ducks’ fast-paced offense and the opportunity to play early.
Moore’s freshman year was nothing short of spectacular. He threw for 3,500 yards and 30 touchdowns while leading Oregon to a Pac-12 Championship. His dual-threat ability added another dimension to the Ducks’ offense, as he rushed for 500 yards and 7 touchdowns. Moore’s knack for making big plays in critical moments quickly endeared him to Oregon fans and made him a household name in college football.
Heading into the 2025 season, Moore is poised to take another leap. Oregon’s offense, under head coach Dan Lanning, is built to showcase Moore’s strengths. The Ducks return several key playmakers, including their top two receivers and a veteran offensive line. Oregon’s schedule includes marquee matchups against USC and Washington, providing Moore with opportunities to shine on the national stage.
Moore’s Heisman campaign will hinge on his ability to replicate or exceed his freshman-year production while leading Oregon to another successful season. His dual-threat capabilities make him one of the most exciting players in college football, and if he can continue to deliver highlight-reel plays, he’ll remain firmly in the Heisman conversation.
Comparing the Two: Manning vs. Moore
While both Manning and Moore are elite talents, their paths to Heisman glory differ in several ways. Manning benefits from his family name, which ensures he’ll always be in the spotlight. However, this also means he faces heightened scrutiny and immense pressure to live up to the Manning legacy. Moore, on the other hand, has carved out his own path, earning recognition through his electrifying play and ability to lead Oregon to victories.
Statistically, both quarterbacks are capable of putting up Heisman-worthy numbers. Manning’s strength lies in his precision passing and ability to read defenses, while Moore’s dual-threat abilities make him a more versatile weapon. In terms of team success, both Texas and Oregon are legitimate contenders for their respective conference titles, and a strong team performance will be crucial for either quarterback’s Heisman chances.
One key factor that could influence the Heisman race is the narrative. The Heisman Trophy is often awarded not just to the best player but to the player with the most compelling story. Manning’s journey as the next in line of the Manning dynasty could capture voters’ imaginations, while Moore’s rise as a trailblazer for young dual-threat quarterbacks could resonate just as strongly.
Challenges to Their Heisman Bids
Winning the Heisman is no easy feat, and both Manning and Moore face significant challenges. For Manning, the biggest obstacle may be the weight of expectations. Texas fans and media expect greatness from him, and any misstep will be magnified. Additionally, the Longhorns face a tough schedule, including games against Alabama, Oklahoma, and a potential Big 12 Championship rematch.
Moore’s challenges are slightly different. The Pac-12 is known for its high-scoring games, which means Moore will have plenty of opportunities to pad his stats. However, the conference’s defensive struggles could lead some voters to discount his numbers. Additionally, with Oregon’s move to the Big Ten looming in 2026, the Ducks face added pressure to make a statement this season, which could either elevate or hinder Moore’s Heisman campaign depending on how he handles it.
Both players also face competition from other Heisman hopefuls. Caleb Williams of USC, the 2024 Heisman winner, is returning for his senior season and is the early favorite to repeat. Other contenders include Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy, Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr., and Georgia’s Brock Bowers. To win the Heisman, Manning and Moore will need to outperform these elite players and deliver unforgettable moments.
What Would a Heisman Win Mean?
For both Manning and Moore, winning the Heisman would be a career-defining achievement. For Manning, it would solidify his place as the next great Manning quarterback and validate the hype surrounding his arrival at Texas. A Heisman Trophy would also symbolize Texas’ return to national prominence and bolster the Longhorns’ recruiting efforts.
For Moore, a Heisman win would represent a triumph of talent and hard work. It would also cement Oregon’s status as a premier program and showcase the Ducks’ ability to develop elite quarterbacks. Additionally, Moore’s success could inspire a new generation of young athletes, particularly dual-threat quarterbacks, to follow in his footsteps.
Conclusion
The 2025 college football season is shaping up to be a thrilling ride, with Arch Manning and Dante Moore at the center of the action. Both quarterbacks have the talent, supporting cast, and stage to make a run at the Heisman Trophy. However, the race will ultimately come down to who can deliver in the biggest moments and capture the hearts of voters.
Manning’s pedigree and precision make him a strong contender, but he’ll need to handle the immense pressure that comes with his last name. Moore’s dynamic playmaking ability and leadership give him a unique edge, but he must navigate the challenges of the Pac-12 and rise above fierce competition.
As the season unfolds, the performances of Manning and Moore will not only shape the Heisman race but also define the futures of their respective programs. Whether it’s Manning leading Texas back to glory or Moore cementing Oregon’s place among college football’s elite, the journey promises to be one for the ages. Only time will tell if either quarterback can hoist the Heisman Trophy, but one thing is certain: the future of college football is in excellent hands.