2024 Heisman Trophy: Winner Picks and Predictions

The Heisman Trophy is the most prestigious individual award in college football, and each year a mix of established veterans and first-time starters enter the season as contenders.

Ahead of the 2024 college football season, we chose one player in each of those categories.

Two quarterbacks stand out as intriguing Heisman bets: Jaxson Dart of Ole Miss and Kyron Drones of Virginia Tech.

Dart is an established starter with two full seasons of action under his belt, while Drones was a first-time starter in 2023.

Here’s why these two are worth considering for your Heisman wagers.

2024 Heisman Trophy betting picks and predictions

Jaxson Dart (+1400)

Jaxson Dart enters the 2024 campaign with high expectations. In his third season at Ole Miss, he has shown significant growth as a quarterback and his situation entering this year is particularly favorable.

The Rebels have an up-tempo, high-powered offense under head coach Lane Kiffin. With three of his top four passing targets returning this season plus the addition of Antwane Wells Jr. from South Carolina, Dart has the blue-chip offensive line talent and speed and skill outside needed to elevate his game even further.

If Ole Miss can compete for the SEC title, Dart will have plenty of opportunities to make his case for the Heisman. His experience and continuity in the program give him a significant advantage over some of the other contenders.

Historically, highly-touted, talented quarterbacks who have transferred and then spent a couple of seasons developing in their new programs have had success in the Heisman race.

Five of the last six Heisman-winning QBs were transfers, with four of them securing the trophy in their second or third seasons at their new schools. Dart fits this mold perfectly since he transferred to Ole Miss from USC after his freshman year.

Dart’s performance last season was impressive, as he ranked among the top 10 in passer rating among qualified Power Five quarterbacks while compiling 3,364 passing yards, good for top 12 among Power Five QBs. His 23-5 TD-INT ratio was efficient, and his ability to add eight touchdowns on the ground demonstrates his dual-threat capabilities.

The 2024 Heisman race is wide open, and while favorites like Dillon Gabriel and Carson Beck are in the conversation, they haven’t shown enough to justify their odds.

Dart’s price of +1400 offer tremendous value, especially considering that Ole Miss has the potential to be a serious contender in the SEC.

If the Rebels can pull off an upset against Georgia at home in November, Dart could have a moment that positions him at the top of tier 1 candidates.

Kyron Drones (+9000)

Kyron Drones, on the other hand, represents a true dark horse pick with +9000 odds. While he may not be a household name yet, the Virginia Tech QB with a Jalen Hurts-esque build is entering his junior season and has the potential to make a significant impact in 2024.

Last season, Drones revamped the Virginia Tech offense after taking over starting duties in Week 3, and he exploded down the homestretch.

Despite only starting part of the season, he threw for 2,084 yards with 17 touchdowns and just three interceptions. On the ground, he added 818 rushing yards and five touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat ability.

Drones enters the 2024 season with almost a full year as the starter under his belt, and he’ll be playing with a roster that returns the most offensive production in the country.

He is under center behind an offensive line that returns all five starters, and he'll distribute the ball to key returning running backs and receivers, providing a strong foundation for Drones to build on and boding well for his chances of putting up big numbers.

While Virginia Tech may not be a national powerhouse, their schedule is manageable, with the toughest games being against Miami and Clemson. If the Hokies can navigate their schedule and contend for an ACC championship, Drones’ odds will likely shorten dramatically.

A strong start to the season could see his odds drop, making him a steal at his current odds.

Read more betting picks and predictions for College Football on site.

2024 Heisman Trophy outright odds

Dillon Gabriel (Oregon)	+750
Carson Beck (Georgia)	+800
Quinn Ewers (Texas)	+1000
Jaxon Dart (Ole Miss)	+1400
Jalen Milroe (Alabama)	+1400
Will Howard (Ohio State)	+1500
Nico Iamaleva (Tennessee)	+1500
Cam Ward (Miami)	+2200
Riley Leonard (Notre Dame)	+2200
Garrett Nussmeier (LSU)	+2200

Read more about the Heisman Trophy here.

This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.