Eyes are on college football’s biggest individual prize. Who will hoist it? Here are the five top candidates.
Leonard Fournette [LSU]
The sophomore running back has faced two ranked opponents. He’s humbled them both, averaging 193.5 yards per game and providing ubiquitous highlight reel material. Heisman voters like a good story and Fournette’s has some appealing angles. Fact: He made Auburn eat crow. Narrative: Fournette is a man of action. Les Miles’ small-ball offense can be boring. Narrative: Fournette is singlehandedly carrying the Tigers.
Nick Chubb [Georgia]
Like Fournette, he’s a sophomore running back. Unlike Fournette, there’s virtually no buzz accompanying his name. Chubb’s talent is undeniable. He just needs an audience. Shining against Lamont, Vanderbilt and South Carolina is fine. Shining against marquee names is more important — and he’ll get that chance. An increased workload would also help. Nineteen carries per game mean few opportunities for a signature moment.
Trevone Boykin [TCU]
He lit up SMU, throwing for 454 yards and five touchdowns. Continuing to put up video game numbers will help voters forget a so-so opener against Minnesota. Texas and Texas Tech should prove willing participants in such an endeavor.
Ezekiel Elliott [Ohio State]
After Ohio State’s Labor Day victory, it seemed like three Buckeyes would be in contention for an invite to New York. Since then, Elliott’s been the only constant performer. And even he isn’t exactly lighting the Earth in fire with a 4.1 yards per carry average over the last two games. The running back probably doesn’t deserve to be on this list. But the world is an unfair place where name recognition is real.
Baker Mayfield [Oklahoma]
Ten touchdown passes through the air. Four on the ground. A legitimate “Heisman Moment” against Tennessee. A confidence rivaling that of Johnny Manziel? What’s not to like?
Images via USA Today & Getty
from The Big Lead http://ift.tt/1PsOEww
No comments:
Post a Comment