The 2019 Heisman Watch is underway. The Heisman Trophy is one of the strangest awards in the sports world. There’s no objective way to win…by default, people vote on the award. So, for the most part, it’s all about perception. Numbers don’t seem to matter as much as winning and having those signature “Heisman” moments, but you have to have both to win it all. We’re talking about the big time players from the big time teams in the big time conferences.
Which is unfortunate, in my opinion. I’m a strong proponent of everyone at least getting a shot, but that’s just not the way the world works. So, with that in mind, I’m taking a look at who’s who in the 2019 Heisman race so far based on who fits the seemingly arbitrary criteria laid forth by the Heisman Trust. But, if you think I’m wrong to do so, feel free to hit up the comments.
2019 HEISMAN WATCH: WEEK 13
5. Jonathan Taylor, Wisconsin Badgers – If the Badgers didn’t have two losses, Taylor would be a much more legitimate Heisman contender, but thanks to Ohio State and Illinois, Taylor’s spectacular season continues to fly kind of under the radar. For the third week in a row, and fourth time this season, Taylor went over the 200-yard mark. Against Purdue, Taylor got 28 carries for 222 yards and a touchdown. His 1,685 rushing yards on the season are only behind Oklahoma State’s Chuba Hubbard. Two lost fumbles keeps him from being higher on this list.
4. Jalen Hurts, Oklahoma QB – The Sooners have won some ugly ass games in recent weeks. But, Hurts continues to be the heart and soul of what slim playoff hopes the Sooners still have. In the 28-24 win over TCU, Hurts went 11/21 for 145 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception. But, it’s not his subpar passing stats that drew attention – without his 28 carries for 173 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns, they don’t win that game.
3. Jayden Daniels, Arizona State QB – Herm Edwards has himself a young stud at quarterback. With the biggest stage of the season set, Daniels and the Sun Devils offense was flat out spectacular. The freshman went 22/32 for 408 yards and three touchdowns, and completely ruined Oregon’s chances at the playoffs. More importantly, he showed that the future is bright out in Tempe.
2. Joe Burrow, LSU QB – Another clean smooth game for the Heisman front-runner. Against Ole Miss, Burrow went 23/28 for 327 yards and three touchdowns. I feel like I say it every week, but at this point, the dude’s running away with this award.
1. Chase Young, Ohio State DE – Young returned to action for the Buckeyes against Penn State on Saturday and reminded us all very quickly of what a disruptive force he is along the defensive line for the Buckeyes. This kid is probably the best player in all of college football this season and could end up being the top pick in next spring’s NFL Draft. Nine total tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles proved to be a nightmare for Penn State. J.K. Dobbins had a big day, but had a couple of costly fumbles that allowed Penn State to get back in the game. Justin Fields played efficiently. But, Young was a game wrecker on Saturday.
UPDATED SOBROS HEISMAN WATCH POINTS STANDINGS
21. Najee Harris, Jauan Jennings, Jerry Jeudy, Brady White – 1
16. Sam Ehlinger, Anthony Gordon, Justin Jefferson, CeeDee Lamb, Tanner Morgan – 2
14. Shane Buechele, Jayden Daniels – 3
11. Ian Book, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, DeVonta Smith – 4
10. J.K. Dobbins – 5
9. Travis Etienne – 6
8. Chuba Hubbard – 8
7. Chase Young – 10
5. Justin Herbert, Jonathan Taylor – 12
4. Justin Fields – 15
3. Tua Tagovailoa – 20
2. Jalen Hurts – 31
1. Joe Burrow – 43
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD and #BeBetter. “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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