Players who won both Heisman and the national title in the same year

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Players who won both Heisman and the national title in the same year

Winning the Heisman Trophy is the pinnacle of individual achievement in college football, while capturing a national championship represents the ultimate team success. Only a rare few players have managed to accomplish both in the same year, demonstrating not only extraordinary talent but also leadership and consistency. These elite athletes left an indelible mark on college football, combining personal excellence with team glory.

1. Fernando Mendoza

1. Fernando Mendoza – 2025 (Indiana)
Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) lifts the trophy after the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
  • 2025 – Indiana Hoosiers
  • Fernando Mendoza’s 2025 season was nothing short of historic. He dominated on both the passing and rushing fronts, leading his team to an undefeated season and a national championship. Mendoza’s combination of poise, athleticism, and football IQ made him the standout candidate for the Heisman. His ability to perform in clutch moments solidified his place among college football’s elite.

2. Devonta Smith

2. Devonta Smith
Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver DeVonta Smith (6) is named offensive MVP against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish following the Rose Bowl at AT&T Stadium. Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
  • 2020 – Alabama Crimson Tide
  • Devonta Smith’s 2020 season was defined by his precise route-running and remarkable hands, which helped Alabama secure both the Heisman and a national title. His ability to make game-changing catches in critical moments became the hallmark of his season. Smith’s connection with his quarterback and knack for finding open space made him unstoppable. He left college football as one of the most polished and productive receivers in recent history.

3. Joe Burrow

3. Joe Burrow
LSU Tigers head coach Ed Orgeron hoists the national championship trophy with quarterback Joe Burrow after a victory against the Clemson Tigers in the College Football Playoff national championship game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
  • 2019 – LSU Tigers
  • Joe Burrow’s 2019 campaign with LSU is widely regarded as one of the greatest individual seasons in college football history. His leadership and accuracy from the quarterback position powered LSU to a perfect record and a national championship. Burrow’s poise in high-pressure situations earned him the Heisman, capping a year of record-breaking performances. His ability to elevate every teammate around him made that season unforgettable.

4. Derrick Henry

4. Derrick Henry
Southeastern conference commissioner Greg Sankey holds the College Football Playoff trophy with Alabama running back Derrick Henry (2) and head coach Nick Saban during a presentation to celebrate the victory in the CFP National Championship game at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Credit: Butch Dill-USA TODAY Sports
  • 2015 – Alabama Crimson Tide
  • Derrick Henry’s 2015 season showcased his rare combination of size, speed, and power. Running through defenses with apparent ease, he led Alabama to a national championship while also securing the Heisman Trophy. Henry’s relentless running style and work ethic set him apart as one of the most dominant backs in college football history. His season was a testament to both individual excellence and team success.

5. Jameis Winston

5. Jameis Winston
Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (5) holds the Coaches Trophy after the 2014 BCS National Championship game against the Auburn Tigers at the Rose Bowl. Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
  • 2013 – Florida State Seminoles
  • Jameis Winston’s 2013 season was a masterclass in quarterback play. He led Florida State to an undefeated season and a national championship, displaying both arm strength and leadership. Winston’s ability to make big plays at critical moments earned him the Heisman. His talent and confidence made him a central figure in one of the most successful campaigns in FSU history.

6. Cam Newton

6. Cam Newton
Auburn Tigers quarterback Cameron Newton speaks while standing next to the Heisman trophy during a national championship celebration at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
  • 2010 – Auburn Tigers
  • Cam Newton’s 2010 season at Auburn was extraordinary, blending athletic versatility with quarterback brilliance. His dual-threat capability propelled Auburn to a national championship while earning him the Heisman. Newton’s playmaking ability in both the passing and running game made him nearly unstoppable. His dynamic leadership style left a lasting legacy on college football.

7. Mark Ingram

7. Mark Ingram
Alabama Crimson Tide running back Mark Ingram (left) hands the Coaches Trophy to teammate Javier Arenas (28) as they celebrate defeating the Texas Longhorns 37-21 in the 2010 BCS national championship game at the Rose Bowl. Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
  • 2009 – Alabama Crimson Tide
  • Mark Ingram’s 2009 season was marked by consistent, punishing runs that kept defenses off balance. His dominance helped Alabama secure a national championship and earned him the Heisman Trophy. Ingram’s blend of vision, power, and patience made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His season reflected both individual dominance and team success.

8. Matt Leinart

8. Matt Leinart
Southern California Trojans quarterback Matt Leinart holds the BCS National Championship trophy after 55-19 victory over Oklahoma in the FedEx Orange Bow at Pro Player Stadium. Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
  • 2004 – USC Trojans
  • Matt Leinart’s 2004 season at USC highlighted his precision passing and calm leadership under pressure. Guiding USC to a national championship, he also earned the Heisman for his outstanding play throughout the season. Leinart’s ability to read defenses and make accurate throws at critical moments defined his campaign. His season remains a benchmark for quarterback excellence in college football history.

Conclusion

Conclusion
Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza (15) smiles as he celebrates after the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026. Credit: © Rich Janzaruk/Herald-Times / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The players who have achieved both the Heisman and a national championship in the same season exemplify the perfect balance of skill, determination, and poise under pressure. Their remarkable seasons serve as a benchmark for future generations of college football stars. Each of these athletes not only dominated on the field but also shaped the legacy of their programs, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

The post Players who won both Heisman and the national title in the same year appeared first on The Big Lead.

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