Darian Mensah’s outstanding season is attracting even more national attention, and the Miami quarterback now finds himself at the front of the Heisman Trophy betting market.
Mensah has overtaken Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith in BetMGM’s latest odds, moving to +150, while Smith has slipped to +275.
It’s worth remembering these are betting odds rather than official Heisman voting, but it’s another indication of just how impressive Miami’s quarterback has been this season.
And the numbers certainly back it up.
Through eight games, Mensah has thrown for 2,425 yards, 25 touchdowns and just one interception.
That’s a remarkable return, particularly when you consider some of the difficult situations Miami have found themselves in recently.
Against North Carolina, Mensah added another three touchdown passes as the Hurricanes battled their way to a 38-35 victory, maintaining their unbeaten record.
He’s not the only Miami player attracting attention either. Malachi Toney is now third in BetMGM’s betting market at +325, giving the Hurricanes two genuine contenders in the national conversation.
Not bad for a team heading into November at 8-0.
South Bend could change everything
The timing couldn’t be much better for Mensah.
Saturday’s trip to No. 4 Notre Dame provides the perfect opportunity to strengthen his Heisman case on one of college football’s biggest stages.
But individual awards will be the last thing on Mario Cristobal’s mind.
Miami’s defence has some serious questions to answer after allowing 341 passing yards and four touchdowns against North Carolina.
And Notre Dame present a very different challenge.
Irish quarterback CJ Carr has thrown 18 touchdowns against just one interception, while his offensive line has allowed only two sacks through eight games.
That puts plenty of pressure on Corey Hetherman and his defensive front.
Marquise Lightfoot’s crucial strip sack against UNC demonstrated what Miami can produce when the pass rush gets home, but the Hurricanes need that sort of disruption more consistently.
Miami cannot afford another evening of missed tackles and blown coverage against an opponent of Notre Dame’s quality.
UK viewing: Fighting Irish TV confirmed
There’s also some good news for those of us preparing for another late night.
Notre Dame’s official Fighting Irish TV service has confirmed that Saturday’s matchup is included in its free international streaming schedule.
That means UK supporters have a confirmed way to watch through the official service after registering for a free account.
We’re still awaiting confirmation of whether the game will also be available on DAZN or Disney+ in the UK. I’ll share an update as soon as those broadcast details are confirmed.
Kick off is 12:30am UK time on Sunday 8 November.
Back to late night kick offs, but this is exactly the sort of game we stay up for.
The Last Word from Across the Pond
It’s brilliant to see Mensah receiving this level of recognition. He’s been outstanding all season and deserves to be mentioned alongside the very best players in college football.
But the Heisman conversation can wait.
Saturday is about Miami proving they belong at No. 1, particularly after the defensive problems exposed in Chapel Hill.
A victory in South Bend would be enormous for the Hurricanes’ season, and if Mensah delivers another big performance along the way, his Heisman credentials will only get stronger.
Individual recognition is great. Keeping that unbeaten record intact matters even more.
