Jadan Baugh is making believers out of everyone in Gainesville. Even Tim Tebow is among the loudest voices backing the Florida football running back’s Heisman Trophy push. The junior has been virtually unstoppable through the opening three games of the 2026 season. He has rushed for 458 yards and an FBS-leading eight touchdowns. He has also powered the Gators to a perfect start.
Baugh’s breakout moment came during Florida’s 44-39 road victory over Auburn. That was when he ripped off a 53-yard touchdown run and celebrated with the iconic Heisman pose.
Article Continues BelowTim Tebow wants to see Jadan Baugh take home the Heisman Trophy 🏆
"Some people do the [Heisman] pose out of hope. I love Jadan because he does it out of belief." pic.twitter.com/ILR6sjViCM
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) September 26, 2026
On SEC Network, Tebow praised the confidence behind the celebration, saying, “Some people do the [Heisman] pose out of hope. I love Jadan because he does it out of belief.”
That distinction captures why Baugh’s early campaign feels different. He is embracing the responsibility of being Florida’s offensive centerpiece. With Jon Sumrall’s offense increasingly built around Baugh’s tackle-breaking ability and physical running style, his production could become even more important as the Gators enter the heart of SEC play. If he maintains anything close to his current pace while Florida continues winning, the Heisman conversation will become impossible to ignore. Tebow’s endorsement will look increasingly prescient.
Florida football has opened the season 3-0. They overwhelmed Florida Atlantic 66-21 and Campbell 52-3 before surviving Auburn in a wild road thriller. Baugh has been the defining figure. He has combined explosive runs with relentless production and gived the Gators a legitimate offensive identity. With the SEC gauntlet ahead, his performance could determine just how far Florida goes and how seriously his Heisman candidacy is ultimately taken.