Carson Beck hasn’t had the best of times in the last three weeks. Before the season began, there was genuine hype around Kirby Smart’s QB1. Some thought that Beck could develop into one of the best passers in college football, and the Heisman Trophy was a definite goal on his list. However, after a string of some less-than-stellar performances, especially in the third and fourth games of the season, Beck’s Heisman hopes are on the chopping block.

Ex-Alabama quarterback Greg McElroy did not hesitate to identify three potential flaws in Beck’s game that could cost him the opportunity to be college football’s most coveted trophy. In a recent discussion on the ESPN College Football YouTube channel, McElroy highlighted some areas where Beck has faltered. One major concern is Beck’s propensity for turnovers. “What is going on with Carson Beck? Statistically speaking, awe-inspiring last week, but he had four turnovers,” McElroy said, referring to Beck’s performance in Georgia’s Week 4 game.

Beck has four turnovers – four! – that includes an intentional grounding that led to a safety, this issue has become a major concern for any player who has his sights set on the Heisman Trophy. Such mistakes may prove expensive in the big games, and they are gradually eroding his Heisman chances.

McElroy didn’t stop there. He noted that Beck’s inconsistency has been a defining feature of his season so far. “You look at how he played last week, and it’s kind of a microcosm of his season. There have been really good moments, but there have also been some moments where you’re kind of left shaking your head.” For Beck to stay in the Heisman race, he will need to eliminate those “head-scratching” moments and bring more consistency to his game.

Another critical issue McElroy raised is Beck’s deep-ball inaccuracy. Beck has struggled to connect on long passes, with McElroy noting, “One for 13 on throws that traveled 15-plus yards in the first three quarters last week.” It’s quite alarming to have such inaccuracy on deep throws, more so if one is aspiring to win the Heisman Trophy. Not all missed deep passes can be blamed on Beck, but this inefficiency is troubling for someone who needs those big plays to stay pegged in the Heisman Trophy race.

The Heisman trophy race heats up: Carson Beck faces tough competition.

First up, we’ve got Jalen Milroe from Alabama. This dude has been on fire! After his killer game against Georgia, he’s now the top guy with odds at +200. He’s completed 62 of 85 passes for 964 yards, with a whopping 10 touchdowns and just one interception. Plus, he’s not just sitting in the pocket; he’s also rushed for 273 yards and eight touchdowns! That makes him a dual threat, and defenses are struggling to keep up.

Then there’s Travis Hunter over at Colorado. This guy’s a beast! He can play both wide receiver and defensive back. He’s racked up 46 interceptions for 561 yards and six touchdowns. On top of that, he’s made some serious plays on defense with 16 tackles, two interceptions, and a forced fumble. Remember that sick interception against UCF? Yeah, he struck the Heisman pose right after. Talk about confidence!

Don’t sleep on Ashton Jeanty from Boise State, either. He’s leading the nation in rushing with 845 yards and 13 touchdowns in just four games! He’s averaging over 10 yards per carry. Not too shabby for a guy from a non-Power Five school, right?

Now, let’s not forget about Cam Ward from Miami. He’s passed for a total of 1,782 yards and has thrown 18 touchdowns. He can score points, but he’s gotta cut down on those mistakes. And keep an eye on Nico Iamaleava from Tennessee. He’s got 892 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and 117 rushing yards. With tough games against Alabama and Georgia coming up, he could make a splash.

But here’s the deal: Carson Beck, the Georgia quarterback, has seen better days. He’s dropped out of the top five for the Heisman, and he’s gotta step it up big time. He’s got some tough matchups ahead, so we’ll see if he can turn things around. Right now, he’s in a bit of limbo, and his next few games will be crucial for his Heisman hopes.