2024 NFL Draft: Sam Hartman has chance to raise NFL stock vs Ohio State

As the college football season unfolds, one name has emerged as a potential Heisman contender as well as a top NFL Draft QB prospect: Sam Hartman.

The talented Notre Dame quarterback, formerly a standout at Wake Forest, has been making waves with his impressive performance. His journey from Wake Forest to Notre Dame, his remarkable stats, and his upcoming showdown against Ohio State are all critical elements that contribute to the making of a Heisman contender.

NFL draft prospect Sam Hartman: From Wake Forest to Notre Dame

After breaking numerous records at Wake Forest, Hartman chose to transfer to Notre Dame. His impressive performances at Wake Forest, including 110 touchdown passes and 12,967 career passing yards, placed him in the top echelons of college football players. Hartman’s transfer to Notre Dame marked an important moment in the Fighting Irish’s quest for a reliable quarterback.

Since his arrival at Notre Dame, Sam Hartman has been nothing short of extraordinary. In his first four games, he boasts a completion rate of 71 percent, with 13 touchdown passes and 1,061 passing yards. Most impressive is his zero interceptions, proving his precision and decision-making skills on the field. He is carrying into the Ohio State game a QB rating of 217. This remarkable performance has led Notre Dame to a 4-0 winning streak, setting the stage for more challenging games ahead: Ohio State (6), Duke (18), Louisville, and USC (5) Oct 14th.

The Upcoming Showdown: Notre Dame vs. Ohio State

The actual test of Hartman’s prowess will be this week’s upcoming game against Ohio State. The Buckeyes are currently ranked sixth and are renowned for their formidable defense. This match is set to be a significant milestone in Hartman’s career. It’s not just any game; this is where Heisman trophies are won. This is the biggest game of his five-year college career and will define his future. With 300 yards, 3 TDs, and a win, he becomes a Heisman favorite and top-3 QB on Mel Kiper’s big board.

In a recent press conference, Hartman shared his thoughts on the upcoming game and his journey. His calm demeanor and confidence highlight his readiness for the challenges ahead. His focus on execution and trust in his team reveal a mature perspective on the game and his role within it.

He said this of Ohio State:

"“I think where it starts with them is their ‘quarterbacks’ of their defense, their linebacking corps, they have two really stout players that have played a lot of football. Obviously, it really encompasses their front seven. A lot of experience, a lot of talent there. Their secondary brought back a lot of guys from last year that are all extremely talented. We know we have a challenge on our hands. They do a lot of things upfront. Very multiple.” Hartman said, “Again, you know, going into this game that it’s going to be a battle for all four quarters, and they’re going to bring it and they have a lot of experience as well. It’s an exciting challenge, but not something that we’re not going to take lightly.”"

As Hartman prepares for the biggest test of his career, he focuses on performing his best and leading his team to victory. A win against Ohio State would solidify Notre Dame’s position in the rankings and significantly boost Hartman’s Heisman prospects.

With his impressive performances and unwavering focus, Sam Hartman has undoubtedly positioned himself as a strong contender for the Heisman trophy. However, the road ahead is challenging, with formidable opponents and high-stakes matches.

As Hartman prepares to face Ohio State, all eyes will be on him, watching to see if he can rise to the occasion and cement his place as one of college football’s rising stars.