By: Zach Ruocco – University of South Carolina Beaufort
Heisman Hopefuls 2017:
Sam Darnold
USC’s early Heisman front runner, Sam Darnold, struggled last Saturday against Western Michigan, but he has plenty of time to make up for it in his Heisman campaign. Last season, Darnold was tasked with taking over the USC starting quarterback position only three games into the season. As a freshman, he was able to lead the complicated Trojans offense with outstanding poise, composure, and command. Pro scouts took notice of how quickly he gets rid of the ball and his ability to put up 31 TDs in his first year, so the hype is real. USC is expected to be a legitimate candidate for the National Title this year with how well Darnold reads the field. With #1 draft pick expectations, (New York Jets?) and more college accolades looming, Darnold is a surefire candidate to take home the Trophy this year.
Lamar Jackson
Honestly, watching this dude is like watching a video game. He throws out ankle-breakers and hurdles like he’s pulling off a gamebreaker on NFL Street. (I’m getting old) Who does this guy think he is, Michael Vick? No, because even Michael Vick said Lamar Jackson was better than him. The incumbent Heisman Trophy winner racked up the points for Louisville last year with 51 TDs, becoming the first FBS player ever to throw for 3,300 yds and rush for 1,500. Louisville will face tough tests against Clemson and Florida State, but the rest of their schedule is fairly easy, giving Lamar a good chance to keep putting up video game numbers. Just don’t say he’s Michael Vick.
Saquon Barkley
Performance is the name of the game, and Saquon Barkley is the epitome of peak athletic ability on the football field. For proof, check out his crazy workout sessions and behold his power. Barkley rushed for 1,496 yards and 18 TDs last season, leading his team to a Rose Bowl bid, but he still has room to improve as a junior. Not only that, he had a solid season receiving, with over 400 yards. In a word, he’s versatile. Versatile players are an asset, especially in college football, so expect him to get his touches. It doesn’t hurt for his team to be expected to be in contention come playoff time either. The Nittany Lions are ranked 6th in the CFB standings in the stacked gauntlet known as the Big 10 this season. Expect good things from Penn State and a possible trip to New York for Barkley this season.
Darkhorses
Mason Rudolph
Rudolph has a cannon for an arm and is part of a quick strike offense that appears destined to be in shootouts in the Big 12. His team’s success this year would certainly be a catalyst for his Heisman hopes as he faces a remodeling Oklahoma, Texas, and Baylor on his schedule. The Big 12 is not as daunting as it used to be. His accuracy is above-average in the spread offense, so watch out for Rudolph.
Royce Freeman
Speed kills, well, at least Oregon thinks so. (Hello, wardrobe changes?) There’s something about ducks running in highlighter yellow in the rain that makes you think of lightning bolts. Anyways, Royce Freeman is THAT Duck in highlighter yellow. In his first game, Freeman put up 150 yards and 4 TDs, numbers that will make teams around the country to recognize the O once again. Granted, he faced Southern Utah, but there’s more to it than that. Royce is 6’0 tall and 230 pounds with burner 4.4 speed, and will carry the load for the Ducks offense in his senior year, according to head coach Willie Taggert, who is in his first year at Oregon.