Preseason Thoughts on the 2013 Heisman
By Rich Lynch
Aug 2, 2013; Clemson, SC, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Tajh Boyd (10) during pre-practice stretches at the Clemson Tigers practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
Predicting the Heisman Trophy in the preseason is a complete toss-up. The best players are often bypassed: see Matt Ryan (2007) and Peyton Manning (1997). Depending on the season, the award is more about career and team achievement and character than being the best player; see Eric Crouch (2001) and Gino Torretta(1992).
All cynicism aside though, the Heisman Trophy is the apex of individual achievement in college sports. The award is truly sought after because it signifies achievement, success and character. These folks have the game to make it to New York City in December.
1. Tajh Boyd – QB Clemson
2012 Stats: 287-427 (67 percent); 3896 Yards; 36 TD, 13 Interceptions; 11-2 Team Record
Clemson has high profile games to start and end the season, against Georgia and South Carolina. This bodes well for Boyd since it will put him on national television at key points. Boyd plays the game with class. Whether throwing a touchdown or taking a sack there are no histrionics.
Aside from that, Boyd produces. Be it passing, running or most importantly in winning games, Boyd is a leader. He is the frontrunner right now. However, the thing that can help him, the Tigers schedule, is same thing that remove him from the race.
2. Teddy Bridgewater -QB Louisville
2012 Stats: 287-419 (68 percent); 3718 Yards; 27 TD, 8 Interceptions; 11-2 Team Record
Cardinals quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is talented. However, he does not have the running statistics of Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd. Louisville has Charlie Strong back as head coach an easy schedule, a plethora of talent on both sides of the ball and tremendous support from fans and university administration. All should bolster Bridgewater’s Heisman profile.
As the season progresses and Louisville racks up overwhelming wins, Bridgewater will garner more and more support. His skeptics will point to the Cardinals’ strength of schedule, which will be meager in the first season of the American Athletic Conference. The Cardinals have third-rate opponents throughout, and ANY loss will mean the end of Bridgewater’s Heisman candidacy — and the Cardinals national title hopes for that matter.
3. Jadeveon Clowney – DE South Carolina
2012 Stats: 14 Assisted Tackles, 54 Total Tackles, 23.5 Tackles for Loss, 13 Sacks
On paper, Jadeveon Clowney’s figures are good but are not necessary overwhelming. In fact, Georgia linebacker Jarvis Jones actually lead the SEC in tackles-for-Loss and sacks last season.
However, anyone who watched South Carolina play last season can tell you that Clowney impacts the game through intimidation. He operates at the Defensive End position is like Deion Sanders at the defensive back position in his Florida State days would, shutting down his side of the field and forcing offenses in the other direction.
Clowney should win the Heisman, as he is the best player in college football.
Winner: Teddy Bridgewater. The name is easy to remember, his numbers will be good and Louisville will be in the championship game.
Contenders but Pretenders
Aaron Murray – QB Georgia
Murray had a great season in 2012 but fell short when he had the opportunity to throw for a game winning touchdown in the SEC Championship against Alabama. He has the talent and opportunity to become a 2013 Heisman contender, as the Bulldogs will be in the hunt for the BCS.
Todd Gurley – RB Georgia
Gurley is the best running back in the SEC. A healthy season and consistent carries could propel Gurley into legitimate candidacy.
Johnny Manziel – QB Texas A&M
Manziel could overcome his NCAA and off-field image issues with a good season. Tim Tebow shows that winning and contending for a second Heisman, even while being successful in the SEC, is daunting.