Heisman Watch #2: October 20
1. Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State
Boise State's consistent signal-caller has been scarily efficient
so far; he leads the nation in quarterback passing rating. He
also has the advantage of playing for a team contending for
the national title, but due to his lack of running ability and weak
schedule, he will probably fall out of this spot before the season
is done.
2. Cam Newton, QB, Auburn
A shade behind Moore in the tight race is Newton, Auburn's star
quarterback. Like Denard Robinson, he is a "dual threat" quarterback;
he can both run and throw the ball very well. So far he has proven he
can perform against tough competition, but his biggest challenges are yet
to come; he plays talented LSU this weekend and Alabama, arguably the
best defensive team in the country, later on. A good game against LSU this
Saturday would put him in the driver's seat in the race
3. LaMichael James, RB, Oregon
The only running back on the list, James leads the nation in rushing yards per
game. However, he missed the first two games of the year, so he still has some
catching up to do. He'll have to keep up his tremendous pace and have the
top two candidates falter to win the trophy, both of which are very realistic;
James has been impressing even against tough opponents, Newton has
weaknesses, and Moore plays a weak schedule, which could make him easy
to pass.
4. Denard Robinson, QB, Michigan
Robinson has fell in the standings after mediocre games in losses against Iowa
and Michigan State. He definitely still has a shot at taking home the hardware
though; he still ranks 1st in the nation in rushing yards and the top 20 in passer
rating. He'll have time to regroup during Michigan's bye week this weekend,
and can launch himself back into the thick of things with a bug performance
on October 30 against rival Penn State
5. Terrelle Pryor, QB, Ohio State
The preseason favorite Pryor is a long shot to win the coveted trophy; he
suffered a loss last week against Wisconsin and simply has not been as
the other candidates. He continues the trend of "dual threat" QB's with a shot
at the Heisman; he has so far rushed for over 500 yards. He'll need a huge second
half of the season to stay in contention