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Though determining the Heisman winner in November seems obscure, as most of the past winners jumped out from obscurity: the past two red shirt freshman and five of the past seven in their first full-time starter season, hopefully this year’s winner won’t have crab legs on the brain.
As leaders within the NCAA, Heisman winner not only excel on the field, breaking records and winning championships, but also are meant to be role models for players on and off the field. Both Jameis Winston from Florida State (2013 winner) and Johnny Manziel (2012 winner) have shown that outstanding stats and bowl victories are not what makes up a TRUE Heisman winner. Not only did both players disgrace their schools but also disappointed fans with their immature handling of success! This year let’s find someone new!!
Have you ever even really looked at the word ‘Heisman?’ He-is-man…a man. A player that can lead a team on the field, and inspire them off of it. A man that can abide by the law, and achieve excellence while still accepting humility. A man that can be a role model to a nation, a man that is more than just a football player.
Players to look for on the podium this season, joining the illustrious ranks of Heisman winners, are:
Brett Hundley, QB, UCLA
Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia
Bryce Petty, QB, Baylor
Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon
Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State
Though “Famous Jameis” is at the helm of a potential second consecutive National Championship Team, currently 24-0 after the 42-31 victory of the Louisville Cardinals this past Thursday, his ineffectiveness off the field has proven to shake his leadership role amongst the undefeated Seminoles. In a rare visit to the bench versus Clemson earlier this season, the Noles proved they could win without their illustrious QB and rallied behind newcomer Sean Maguire. A two time winner of the Heisman seems unlikely and even to this past FSU Alum, unwarranted.
Marcus Mariota, a Heisman potential in the 2013 season, has another shot at the trophy this season as long as the Ducks can have a winning season and Mariota proves to be a more consistent passer. Despite his struggles, Mariota has proven to be a great fit for the Oregon spread offense.
Bryce Petty of Baylor, another QB, also has produced jaw dropping stats this season, building off of his 4,200 passing yards in 2013 with 32 passing touchdowns and only 3 interceptions. If he can lead his team through the tougher second half of the season, Petty also has a shot to be a Heisman frontrunner.
With the rise and fall of teams, with new potential upsets every game day, this season has produced copious amounts of talent which cannot go ignored.
