The Heisman Memorial Trophy Award (often known simply as the Heisman Trophy or The Heisman), named after former college football player and coach John Heisman, is awarded annually to the most outstanding collegiate football player in the U.S. Although not the only award honoring the best player in college football, it is considered the most prestigious individual player honor in American college football. It is awarded in December before the postseason bowl games.
2007 - 2008 Heisman Trophy Watch
The Heisman Memorial Trophy Award (often known simply as the Heisman Trophy or The Heisman), named after former college football player and coach John Heisman, is awarded annually to the most outstanding collegiate football player in the U.S. Although not the only award honoring the best player in college football, it is considered the most prestigious individual player honor in American college football. It is awarded in December before the postseason bowl games.
2007 - 2008 Heisman Trophy Watch
Here are Rod Gilmore's Oct. 9 selections.
1. DeSean Jackson, Cal
Jackson had as dominant a game against Oregon as anyone in the country. He has already delivered a few Heisman-esque performances. He's easily the most exciting player in the game. He's got buzz, and his team is hot.
2. Darren McFadden, Arkansas
If Jackson is the most exciting player in the game, McFadden is the best offensive player. He'll probably finish the season with the most productive running yardage of an running back this season. I'm a bit hesitant about Arkansas' losses; I just don't know how good team is going to be. If the Razorbacks have four or five losses, McFadden's Heisman quest could be impossible. He is, however, helped by his top-three finish last year, which will keep him on the Heisman radar.
3. Colt Brennan, Hawaii
By the end of the season, Brennan will most likely lead the country in passing. He's an outstanding player, and if Hawaii finishes the season undefeated, the Warriors could be competing for a BCS bowl bid. Brennan's five interceptions against Idaho didn't help his cause, nor did his injury against Utah State on Saturday.
4. Matt Ryan, Boston College
Matt Ryan's made steady progress this season after his performance at Georgia Tech catapulted him into the race. Boston College is moving up the rankings because of him; I'm not sure any quarterback is playing better than he is right now. Ryan is also the beneficiary of other quarterbacks' inconsistent play or their team's losses. For example, Brian Brohm would probably be ahead of Ryan if Louisville was winning games. Kentucky's loss to South Carolina and Andre' Woodson's turnovers in the game opened the door for Ryan to crack the top five.
5. Mike Hart, Michigan
Hart started the season as a potential Heisman guy but fell off when his team lost to Appalachian State. He's since put the team on his back, putting up big numbers and winning games. He's clearly the MVP of the team. However, Hart is in a precarious situation; if Michigan loses one or two more games, the Wolverines could fall off the map -- and so could Hart.
2007 - 2008 Heisman Trophy Race:
Heisman Trophy News 10/09/07
Heisman Trophy News 10/04/07
Heisman Trophy News 09/25/07
Heisman Trophy Race as of 09/14/07
Heisman Trophy Race as of 09/08/07
