Portal Fact or Fiction: Ward or Gabriel for Heisman, Kyle McCord at Ohio State and Ole Miss

In today’s Fact or Fiction – Portal Edition – I look at three more transfer topics and decide whether the statement is indeed FACT or FICTION .

1. Cam Ward has a better chance to win the Heisman than Dillon Gabriel

Mark’s take: FICTION

Before the season began, I thought that Dillon Gabriel had the perfect opportunity to win the Heisman. The offense is perfect for him and so is the talent around him. However, after a couple of lackluster games I began to think differently. During that time Cam Ward was putting up pinball numbers and became one of the favorites. Now, after Gabriel’s performance against Ohio State and with Oregon #2 in the polls, I once again believe that he is the front runner between the two. I say between the two, because Ashton Jeanty will be a contender until the end. But if Gabriel and the Ducks keep winning, which will be more impressive than if Miami does the same in the weaker ACC, it will be difficult to keep the trophy away from him. Remember to follow your initial gut instincts.

2. Kyle McCord should’ve had the opportunity to play another season at Ohio State

Mark’s take: FICTION

McCord is having a very good season for a surprisingly competitive Syracuse team. Already with 2,160 yards and 19 touchdowns, he is on pace to shatter last season’s numbers with Ohio State. However, he is also throwing the ball much more (on pace to throw approximately 160 more passes this season) while completing shorter passes (13.8 in 2023, 11.7 this season). Overall, this is a move that worked out for both sides. McCord needed a change of scenery, which has worked out very well for him, while Ohio State needed to turn the page. And that page led them to Will Howard , who despite the loss to Oregon, is still the right player for the Buckeyes this season.

3. Ole Miss became too reliant on the transfer portal

Mark’s take: FACT

2024 was the opportunity for Ole Miss to make a serious run for the national championship, but instead they’ve lost two out of their last three games in the SEC which currently has their playoff hopes on life support. If the Rebels had continued to win, there would not have been a discussion about this, but since they didn’t, it makes sense to take a deeper dive into their roster. Most of their important players are transfers, most of which will be out of eligibility or likely going to the NFL ( Jaxson Dart, Tre Harris, Chris Paul Jr., Walter Nolen, Trey Amos, Henry Parris Jr., J.J. Pegues, Jared Ivey, Princely Umanmielen to name a few). So, the likely scenario has the Rebels taking another very deep dive into the transfer portal. And if you need a reminder on how that can go, ask Florida State fans.