C.J. Stroud enters the 2022 season as the leading candidate for college football's most prestigious award. As Ohio State's quarterback, he's well-positioned to build on his impressive 2021 campaign and potentially become the first Buckeye Heisman winner since Troy Smith in 2006.

Currently sitting at +175 odds, Stroud leads defending Heisman winner Bryce Young (+350) and USC transfer Caleb Williams (+700) as the betting favorite.

Why Stroud is the Frontrunner:

• Outstanding 2021 Stats: 4,435 passing yards, 44 touchdowns, and only 6 interceptions in 12 games
• Elite Supporting Cast: Features top receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and talented wideouts Marvin Harrison Jr. and Julian Fleming
• Proven System: Ohio State's pass-heavy offense under Ryan Day has produced multiple first-round NFL quarterbacks
• Limited Competition: Few quarterbacks are realistically positioned to challenge for the award

Stroud's 2021 numbers nearly matched Bryce Young's Heisman-winning season, with Young recording 4,872 yards and 47 touchdowns but with more interceptions and a lower completion percentage.

Key Advantages:

• More experience entering his redshirt sophomore season
• NFL-caliber receiving corps despite losing first-rounders Wilson and Olave
• Pass-friendly offensive system under Ryan Day
• Weaker quarterback competition compared to previous years

While preseason favorites often struggle with expectations, Stroud's combination of talent, supporting cast, and experience makes him a compelling choice to capture the 2022 Heisman Trophy before likely becoming an early first-round NFL Draft pick in 2023.

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