After another exciting week of college football, the Big 12 continues to showcase standout talent in the race for the Heisman Trophy. While the frontrunners may come from the SEC, ACC and Big Ten, the Big 12 is quietly building its case for back-to-back Heisman winners—something the conference hasn’t accomplished since Baker Mayfield and Kyler Murray brought home the trophy in consecutive years for Oklahoma in 2017 and 2018.
Here’s a look at some of the Big 12’s top Heisman contenders through three weeks of action.
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Sawyer Robertson, QB, Baylor
Sep 13, 2025; Waco, Texas, USA; Baylor Bears quarterback Sawyer Robertson (13) throws the balll upfield against the Samford Bulldogs during the first half at McLane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images
Robertson has unassumingly emerged as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation, even if he isn’t receiving the attention he deserves just yet. In the first two weeks of the season, he threw for over 400 yards in back-to-back games, including a strong performance against a now-ranked No. 22 Auburn and an impressive win over ranked SMU in Week 2.
Through three games, Robertson has totaled 1,070 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and just two interceptions. The schedule ahead won’t be easy, as Baylor is set to face some of the toughest teams in the Big 12. But with Robertson under center, the Bears have a real chance to turn heads and shake up the conference.
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Sep 13, 2025; Lubbock, Texas, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders quarterback Behren Morton (2) takes a snap in the second half against the Oregon State Beavers at Jones AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Michael C. Johnson-Imagn Images
The senior quarterback from Eastland, Texas, has come out firing to start the 2025 season for the Red Raiders. He’s completed over 70 percent of his passes for 923 yards, racking up 11 touchdowns with just one interception—numbers that certainly catch your attention.
While Texas Tech has faced relatively weak competition through the first three weeks, Morton has not only met expectations but exceeded them. Now, he and the Red Raiders face their first real challenge of the season as they travel to Utah for a marquee Big 12 matchup against the No. 16 Utes.
Devon Dampier, QB, Utah
Sep 13, 2025; Laramie, Wyoming, USA; Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4) carries the ball in the first quarter against the Wyoming Cowboys at Jonah Field at War Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Dampier has quickly made his mark in Salt Lake City, stepping in as the quarterback Utah has been searching for in recent years. He brings a dynamic dual-threat presence—elusive on the ground and sharp in the pocket, with the awareness and timing to consistently find open receivers.
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So far, he’s completed 73 percent of his passes for 628 yards and seven touchdowns, while adding nearly 200 rushing yards and a score on 33 carries. Those numbers might not scream Heisman just yet, but the potential is clearly there.
Utah looks like a complete team, especially on defense, where they’ve given up only two total touchdowns over three games. Their offense, meanwhile, is operating with ruthless efficiency. This weekend’s matchup against No. 17 Texas Tech will be Dampier’s first real test against a ranked defense, providing an opportunity to prove he belongs in the national conversation.
Sep 13, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) makes a catch in the second quarter of the game between Arizona State Sun Devils and Texas State Bobcats. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images
Tyson is widely projected to be one of the top wide receivers in the 2026 NFL Draft—and he’s making a strong case to be the first off the board. At 6’2″ and 200 pounds, the junior brings a rare combination of size, speed, and polish. He moves effortlessly with smooth, fluid hips. He has a natural ability to create separation, whether he’s blowing past defenders downfield or finding soft spots in the short and intermediate routes.
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Through the first three games of the season, Tyson has been nothing short of reliable and explosive. He’s recorded at least six receptions and a touchdown in every outing, totaling 24 catches for 314 yards and four scores. Right now, he stands as the top wideout in the Big 12 and one of the top five in the country.
He’ll be one to watch this weekend as his team takes on Baylor in what’s shaping up to be a high-scoring shootout where defense may be optional.
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This article originally appeared on Buffaloes Wire: Big 12 Heisman candidates: Top contenders emerging across the league
