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

Nov 27, 2014; College Station, TX, USA; LSU Tigers running back Leonard Fournette (7) rushes during the second quarter against the Texas A&M Aggies at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Player: Leonard Fournette
247Sports Overall Composite Ranking: 1
Position Ranking: 1
Heisman Odds: +1200

Fournette was one of the most coveted prospects in the country during his recruitment. He made an impact almost immediately, receiving playing time as a freshman and putting up very good numbers. Rushing the rock for 1,735 yards and 22 touchdowns, it was clear from the outset that he could not only play, but was not a flash in the pan. He followed his freshman performance up with a 1,957-yard, 19 touchdown season his sophomore year, and continued his meteoric rise to the top of the high school football world with a 2,136-yard, 31-touchdown season his junior campaign.

He did experience a “decline” his senior year rushing for 1,802 yards and 18 touchdowns, but he showed he could be an asset in the passing game catching 42 passes for 745 yards and six touchdowns.

Offered by 14 teams, the Tigers won the “war” for his services, as recruiting coordinator and running backs coach Frank Wilson handled the primary duties of Fournette’s recruitment while offensive coordinator Cam Cameron was the secondary recruiter.

With 26 enrollees, Fournette was one of three five-star recruits and one of 12 Louisiana-born players. Overall, the class ranked No. 2 nationally and No. 2 in the SEC per the 247Sports Team Rankings.

Rushing for 1,034 yards and 10 touchdowns last season, he has shown to this point that he is worthy of all the hype that surrounded him during his recruitment process.

Next: Cody Kessler