Predicting who'll win the Heisman
By Larry Ness
Of all the shiny metallic figurines in the world, none is as prestigious as the Heisman Trophy. I’m not sure whether it’s the tradition, the history or the sought-afterness (that’s right, I just made up a word) of the little straight-armed man, but I’ve been obsessed with the award for some time.
Every year I follow the chase for college football’s highest honor closely, and this year might be the first that I can remember when the top three finalists from last season are back and eligible to hoist the bronzed leatherhead.
We’re only a month away from the kickoff of the college football season, so let’s see the contenders for this year’s Heisman award.
Tim Tebow (+150)
Why he’ll win: The Gators quarterback was the first sophomore ever to claim the Heisman and, although he finished third last season, he actually had more first place votes than any other candidate. Throw in the fact that voters love his intangibles (proven winner, strong leader and absolutely fearless).
Why he won’t: Playing in the SEC doesn’t make for the easiest of schedules and without Percy Harvin in the lineup, defenses will be able to key in on Tebow.
Sam Bradford (+250)
Why he’ll win: This guy is making a mockery of college football’s quarterback rating (176.52 as a freshman and 180.86 last year). He could have been the first overall pick in the NFL Draft last April, but decided to come back in hopes of capturing the national championship. It’ll be difficult for voters to check another box if Bradford comes anywhere close to 2008’s 50 TD passes.
Why he’ll lose: Like Tebow, Bradford doesn’t have the same weapons this season. The Sooners’ two-headed monster at tailback could diminish Bradford’s numbers.
Colt McCoy (+250)
Why he’ll win: Voters will feel sympathetic for the Texas Longhorns gunslinger. Not only did McCoy come up on the short end of the Heisman voting, his club also watched Oklahoma, a team Texas beat on a neutral field, play in the Big 12 title game and the national championship game. Besides that, this kid’s got the fire to prove he and his team was wronged last season.
Why he’ll lose: He’s not the sexy pick. Tebow is already being called one of the greatest college football players of all-time and Sam Bradford plays in a much more explosive offense.
Others listed: Terrelle Pryor (+700), Jahvid Best (+900), Jevan Snead (+1000), Zac Robinson (+1000), Evan Royster (+1100)
Sleeper pick: Evan Royster (+1100)
The Penn State back ran for 1,236 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. His Nittany Lions have a real shot at running the table in 2009.
The pick: Tim Tebow (+150)
While my heart says McCoy, my head says Tebow.
Urban Meyer’s boy burst onto the scene in 2006 with outstanding skills but little polish as a passer. We’ve seen that facet of his game improve dramatically over his college career.
There’s definitely some subjectivity that comes into this voting. Tebow is well liked and admired. If the Gators repeat as champions, Tebow should have another Heisman for his trophy mantle.