Jameis Winston: Most Exciting Player In College Football?

Oct 5, 2013; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston (5) warms up before the start of the game against the Maryland Terrapins at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

Florida State Seminoles quarterback Jameis Winston has played all of five games in his college football career, but those five games have been something special.

The redshirt freshman set career highs of 393 yards and five passing touchdowns before his curtain call in the Seminoles’ romp over fellow Top 25 ACC representative Maryland. None of Winston’s five scores were more impressive than his last.

Winston’s Heisman buzz began almost immediately, and it only grows every week. Texas A&M’s Johnny Manziel became the first ever freshman to win the award, blending incredible vision, speed and a cannon arm.

The two have similar skill sets. Yet while the reigning Heisman winner Manziel continues to wow down in College Station, Winston is stealing some of his thunder.

Each week brings at least one jaw-dropping addition to the growing highlight reel. Last week against Boston College, Winston escaped would-be Eagle tacklers to unload a Hail Mary score just before halftime.

Winston has 17 passing touchdowns 1441 yards through five games. He has another two rushing touchdowns. Manziel’s scored 14 passing touchdowns and three on the ground for the Aggies, also in five games.

Their daring, dual-threat do is virtually unrivaled, though Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota can stake such a claim. Mariota’s explosive rushing ability complements a big arm, powering the nation’s second-most prolific scoring offense.

The three are emerging as early front runners in the Heisman Trophy race. No matter which among them–if any–win the Heisman, all are a joy to watch.