Malachi Toney Shines in Season Opener, Launches Heisman Campaign

In the opening game of the 2026 college football season, Miami wide receiver Malachi Toney delivered a standout performance against Stanford, contributing significantly to a 45-6 victory.

Toney recorded 12 receptions for 234 yards and three touchdowns, surpassing his previous season-high of 146 yards from 2025. This marked the first three-touchdown game of his college career, following a freshman season where he achieved 109 receptions for 1,211 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Despite the strong showing, Toney faces the challenge of being a wide receiver in the Heisman Trophy race, a category historically dominated by quarterbacks and running backs. Only five wide receivers have won the award, but Toney's early season performance suggests he could be a contender.