C.J. Stroud enters the 2022 season as the clear favorite to win the Heisman Trophy, with compelling reasons to back his candidacy. The Ohio State quarterback currently sits at +175 odds, leading contenders Bryce Young (+350) and Caleb Williams (+700).

As a redshirt freshman in 2021, Stroud posted impressive numbers with 4,435 passing yards, 44 touchdowns, and just six interceptions across 12 games. His completion percentage even topped defending Heisman winner Bryce Young's mark.

Despite losing first-round receivers Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave to the NFL, Stroud maintains elite weapons in his arsenal:

• Jaxon Smith-Njigba (projected first-round pick)
• Marvin Harrison Jr.
• Julian Fleming
• TreVeyon Henderson (dynamic receiving back)

Key factors supporting Stroud's Heisman case:

• Ryan Day's quarterback-friendly system that produced NFL first-rounders Dwayne Haskins and Justin Fields
• Limited competition from other quarterbacks nationally
• A year of starting experience under his belt
• Ohio State's loaded receiving corps
• Strong 2021 campaign (4th in Heisman voting as a freshman)

While preseason Heisman favorites often struggle with expectations, Stroud appears well-positioned to buck that trend. His combination of experience, supporting talent, and proven production in a pass-heavy offense makes him a worthy betting favorite to bring home Ohio State's first Heisman since Troy Smith in 2006.

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