Heisman Trophy Watch 2015: Where top 15 candidates ranked as recruits

Dec 31, 2014; Atlanta , GA, USA; TCU Horned Frogs quarterback Trevone Boykin (2) throws the ball against the Mississippi Rebels during the first quarter in the 2014 Peach Bowl at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

Where the top 2015 Heisman Trophy candidates ranked as recruits

They all had to start somewhere. Before they earned their stripes as some of the most catalytic athletes the game has seen, they earned their stripes on the fields of their high schools looking to separate themselves from the rest of the pack and get the privilege to play Division 1 college football. Some were primed for greatness while others had to rise above their peers and show they were primed for the-big time.

More from Alabama Crimson Tide

• #10 Alabama football: 3 takeaways from close road win against USF
• College Football Playoff: Projected top 4 after Week 2
• Biggest winners and losers from College Football Week 2
• Alabama football: Is the Nick Saban Dynasty officially over?
• Alabama football: 3 bold predictions vs. No. 11 Texas in Week 2

In a sport where many different paths can lead to success, these 15 players have ended up on an exclusive list as they try to shift the odds in their favor to win the Heisman Trophy. For the candidates however, just getting on the list is not enough: being in New York City in December and standing on stage, and hearing your name get coupled with the greats of college football’s past is the ultimate goal.

One of the unique things about the Heisman Trophy is that it does not single out a position. Any player that has shown exemplary talent is eligible. For this year’s candidates in particular, versatility is a hallmark of this class. Whether it be the cannon arm of Cardale Jones or the running talents of Nick Chubb, each one of these players has something to bring to the table.

Without further ado, we take a look at the top 15 candidates to win the Heisman Trophy and how they stack up against the odds heading into the season.

All recruiting rankings courtesy of the 247Sports Composite and Heisman odds courtesy of Bovada.

Next: Begin Slideshow