The Heisman Memorial Trophy is awarded annually since 1935 to the top player in college football. It is considered the most prestigious award in the sport and is presented by the Heisman Trophy Trust following the regular season in December. Let’s see who the top 5 Heisman candidates are.Â
5. Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State
Photo Cred: SI
It’s not a surprise Ohio State has yet another great wide receiver, but this time, Jeremiah Smith is beyond the expectation. He is an NFL ready receiver in year two. Looking like one of the best college prospects of all time, he doesn’t have a flaw. His size, body control, route running, speed, and everything else is exactly what NFL scouts rave about. He can go deep and catch contested jump balls, he is dangerous in open space, and his route running can get him open anywhere. He is an NFL receiver that has to play another year of college.
4. Marcel Reed
Texas A&M had high hopes for this season but not many people predicted their perfect start. The last time the Aggies were 9-0 was in 1992 and that’s largely due to their playmaker quarterback Marcel Reed. His ability to extend plays and turn nothing into a big gain makes him so exciting to watch. With an SEC Championship title in sight, the Aggies are looking to win it all and establish themselves as one of the top teams in the country for years to come.
3. Ty Simpson
Photo Cred: Alabama
After losing its season opener against Florida State, many people thought it was the downfall of the once great Alabama dynasty. But Ty Simpson took control of the offense and has led Alabama to eight straight wins and three wins over current ranked opponents. He is a great pocket passer and keeps the ball out of harm’s way while delivering accurate, on time throws that extend drives. While he is not known for being a runner, he can do it when he needs to and it’s won games for the Crimson Tide.
2. Julian Sayin
Ohio State sits at the top of the throne once again after a clean 9-0 start. Quarterback Julian Sayin is doing exactly what he needs to do to win games. Nothing about him is flashy apart from making the right reads and keeping the offense ahead of the chains. He leads the country in completion percentage because he finds the right throws to make and protects the ball. It’s sound, clean football that wins games by doing the ordinary things to perfection.
1. Fernando Mendoza
Photo Cred: Bleacher Report
Last year, Indiana had a special season reaching the playoffs and going toe to toe with the best teams in the country. After losing key pieces, including quarterback Kurtis Rourke to the NFL, Fernando Mendoza stepped in as a transfer from Cal. He made an immediate impact on the field and is the reason why Indiana is not only ranked second in the country, but a national championship contender. What shines most is his leadership and ability to deliver in the biggest moments.
