CJ Carr’s Heisman Run Begins Now!
- godcountryirish
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
CJ Carr, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish's rising star quarterback, enters the 2026 season as the early betting favorite to claim the Heisman Trophy. As a redshirt sophomore, Carr is positioned to build on his breakout performance and lead Notre Dame toward national prominence. Here's a preview of the key factors that could propel him to college football's most prestigious individual award.
Proven Foundation
In his first full season as the starter in 2025, Carr delivered impressive numbers despite a run-heavy offensive scheme that limited his pass attempts (ranking outside the top tier nationally). He completed 195 of 293 passes (66.6-66.7%) for 2,741 yards, 24 touchdowns, and just 6 interceptions. His yards per attempt hovered around 9.4, and his passer rating ranked among the nation's elite (No. 6-8 in various metrics, with a QBR around 83.4). He also added 3 rushing touchdowns on limited carries.
Notable highlights included a 354-yard, 4-TD explosion against Arkansas (with 294 yards in the first half alone) and consistent multi-TD games. Carr threw at least one TD pass in every contest, marking the longest such streak for a Notre Dame QB in over a decade. His efficiency, poise, and low turnover rate flew somewhat under the radar due to Notre Dame's conservative approach and a schedule lacking late-season high-profile matchups—but the tape showed a quarterback ready for more.
Path to the Heisman
To win the Heisman, voters typically reward quarterbacks who post gaudy volume stats while leading their team to big wins, especially in high-visibility games. Carr has several realistic paths to achieve this:
Increased Offensive Role and Volume
Notre Dame leaned on the run game in 2025, but with Carr's proven arm talent—elite velocity, touch, accuracy across all levels, and the ability to make every throw—expect a more pass-oriented attack in 2026. A jump to 350-400+ attempts could yield 3,800-4,200+ yards and 30-35+ TDs if his efficiency holds (68%+ completion, sub-10 INTs). His smooth release, arm strength, and pocket mobility (good enough to extend plays without being a primary runner) make him ideal for coordinator upgrades.
Team Success and National Spotlight
Notre Dame enters 2026 as a preseason favorite for both the Heisman and national title in some projections. The Irish's independent status and NBC exposure ensure visibility. A deep College Football Playoff run—ideally with signature wins—would thrust Carr into the national conversation weekly. Heisman history favors QBs on top teams (e.g., recent winners often from playoff contenders). If Notre Dame goes 11-1 or better with Carr as the clear engine, voters will notice.
Signature Performances Against Quality Opponents
Early reports suggest a favorable 2026 schedule with at most a couple of projected top-25 foes (e.g., potential tests like Miami or BYU). Dominating those, plus racking up stats in easier matchups, could create highlight-reel moments. Multi-TD, 300+ yard games in prime-time spots would build momentum. His 2025 flashes (e.g., high-yardage outbursts) show he can explode when given chances.
Narrative and Pedigree
As the grandson of legendary coach Lloyd Carr, CJ carries built-in storylines. His rapid rise from highly touted four-star recruit to starter, combined with clean play and leadership, fits the Heisman mold.
Potential Challenges
The biggest hurdle is Notre Dame's schedule—if it lacks enough "big stage" games, voters might overlook him for flashier QBs on tougher slates (e.g., Manning at Texas). He must stay healthy, avoid regression, and elevate in clutch moments. But with his tools (6'3", 210 lbs, strong arm, decision-making), the ceiling is sky-high.
In short, if CJ Carr takes the expected step forward—more throws, bigger numbers, and leading Notre Dame to elite wins—he has a legitimate shot to establish himself amongst names like Theisman, Montana, Rice, and Quinn. The 2026 season could mark his arrival as one of college football's premier talents.
Go Irish!
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