Week 1 of the college football season delivered a slate of thrilling games, notable upsets, and standout individual performances. Quarterbacks and running backs across the nation made significant marks, with some players launching themselves into early Heisman Trophy conversations.
Darian Mensah, in his first start for the Hurricanes, posted a remarkable stat line against Stanford, throwing for 401 yards and five touchdowns. He became one of only six quarterbacks since 2000 to achieve at least 90% completion, over 400 passing yards, and five touchdowns in a single game. Mensah's performance has positioned him as a favorite for the Heisman Trophy.
Pittsburgh quarterback Mason Heintschel also had a prolific outing against Miami Ohio, completing 31 of 41 passes for 453 yards and seven touchdowns. This performance placed him among the top single-game passing performances since 2000, leading his team to a decisive victory.
USC's Jayden Maiava showcased efficiency and effectiveness against Fresno State, completing 23 of 25 passes for 349 yards and three touchdowns. His 92% completion rate set a USC record for games with at least 25 pass attempts and ranks highly in FBS history for similar statistical thresholds. Maiava's strong showing has also put him on the Heisman radar.
On the ground, Iowa's Kamari Moulton set a program record for yards per carry in a single game, rushing for 183 yards and two touchdowns on just 11 attempts against Northern Illinois. His average of 16.64 yards per carry is among the best in Big Ten history for players with at least 10 carries.
Jaylin Carter of the Tigers also had a significant rushing day against Arkansas State, accumulating 183 yards and four touchdowns on 19 carries. He also added an 18-yard reception, bringing his total yards to 201. Carter's four rushing touchdowns in a single game ranks fifth in his program's history.
Duke running back Nate Sheppard led the nation in rushing yards for Week 1, carrying the ball 35 times for 227 yards and two touchdowns against Tulane. Sheppard, an All-ACC honoree from the previous season, appears poised for another strong year.
In the receiving game, Miami's Malachi Toney set a new single-game receiving yards record for the Hurricanes against Stanford, with 12 catches for 234 yards and three touchdowns. This performance builds on his successful freshman season, where he led the FBS in receptions and set the single-season receiving yards record for Miami. Toney's odds for the Heisman Trophy saw a significant surge after his Week 1 performance.
Ole Miss wide receiver Deuce Alexander delivered a career-best performance against Louisville, making five catches for 159 yards and two touchdowns. His two 62-yard touchdown receptions in the third quarter provided a critical spark for his team. Alexander's average of 31.8 yards per reception ranks high in Ole Miss history for players with at least five catches.
Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith recorded 151 receiving yards and two touchdowns on eight catches in the first half against Ball State. His 29 career receiving touchdowns already surpass any other college football player since 2024, and he continues to climb the charts for career 100-yard receiving games at Ohio State. Smith is considered one of the top receivers in the country and a contender for the Heisman Trophy.