Marqise Lee Has Historic Day in Loss at Arizona

Oct. 27, 2012; Tucson, AZ, USA; Arizona Wildcats cornerback Derrick Rainey (17) misses a tackle on USC Trojans wide receiver Marqise Lee (9) as he scores a 49 yard touchdown during the first half at Arizona Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-US PRESSWIRE

Never before in a losing effort have I been more convinced a player is worthy of Heisman consideration than Marqise Lee after USC fell to Arizona, 39-36. Lee’s historic day was the reason Matt Barkley had an opportunity to heave a half-field Hail Mary as time expired to try and rally from Arizona’s rally. And though Lee was unable to haul Barkley’s bomb in, the sophomore wide receiver deserves to be in the conversation for college football’s highest individual honor.

Lee caught 345 yards and two touchdowns, and his play in special teams set up other USC offensive opportunities. He now has over 1100 yards on the year and 10 touchdowns, with four games still to go. His numbers are historic through this campaign, and while college football has moved to a more uptempo, pass-happy game in recent years, USC doesn’t run an air raid offense. That makes Lee’s production all the more significant.

There’s an odd feeling to writing a USC player is unfairly overlooked for national honors. Typically wearing the cardinal-and-gold is a Fast-Pass to any award that player might covet. And indeed, the premature crowning of Barkley has a Heisman Trophy candidate or USC as the BCS front runner exhibited that. But Lee’s been shockingly inconspicuous in Heisman conversations.

Losses usually weaken a player’s candidacy; Lee’s loss should strengthen his. Lee excelled against Arizona in spite of all that was surrounding him. Lane Kiffin’s much maligned play calling reared its head in the second half, when the Trojans relied much less heavily on Lee than in a 21-point second quarter that turned momentum squarely in USC’s favor. Barkley also had about as poor a game as a quarterback who threw for 500 yards possible can.

Lee was reportedly in tears when walking off the Arizona Stadium field, moments after having the would-be game winner batted away from his hands.

He could have beat his chest and celebrated his individual performance, but was vested in the team effort. You won’t hear him point the figure at the play calling, at Barkley, at the turnovers by Trojans who weren’t him made, or at the defense that gave up 38 points. Lee doesn’t just have Heisman production, but a Heisman attitude.