Here's Jacob Rodriguez's vote totals for the Heisman Trophy. Also, the ballots of Texas Tech football beat members Don Williams and David Collier.

With early signing day in the rearview mirror, recruiters will now look to build up their 2026 rosters through the transfer portal. That method of roster additions proved crucial for Texas Tech, which won a Big 12 title and made the College Football Playoff after a transfer portal haul a year ago.

So, who are the best transfers in the playoff field? Let's run through them, starting with a potential Heisman winner: Former School: Cal The catalyst of the first No. 1 Indiana team in history, Mendoza's thrust himself into the conversation for the Heisman and to be the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Heisman Trophy voters must do a better job of recognizing players other than quarterbacks. Texas Tech’s Jacob Rodriguez deserved more votes.

Texas Tech announces major news on star linebacker Jacob Rodriguez after he was left out of the Heisman Trophy finalist list.

Jacob Rodriguez makes history for Texas Tech, claiming the Lombardi Award as the Red Raiders get set for the College Football Playoff.

Texas Tech added a commitment from tight end Matt Ludwig Friday. He signed with Michigan, but was released after coach Sherrone Moore was fired.

At the center of Texas Tech’s rise has been senior linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, who anchored one of the nation’s top defensive units. Rodriguez finished the season with 117 tackles, seven forced fumbles, four interceptions, two fumble recoveries and a sack, placing him among national leaders in several defensive categories.

Both Mendoza and Rodriguez had big nights, taking home several awards as college football honored its top players Friday

After a loss to Arkansas, Texas Tech head coach Grant McCasland says he wants more games like this on the schedule.