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College football’s top 15 Heisman Trophy candidates heading into spring

By Jerran Anderson

Jan 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) drops back to pass against the Penn State Nittany Lions during the first quarter of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; Pasadena, CA, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) drops back to pass against the Penn State Nittany Lions during the first quarter of the 2017 Rose Bowl game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Hurts (2) runs to the end zone for a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers during the fourth quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Hurts (2) runs to the end zone for a touchdown against the Clemson Tigers during the fourth quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Quarterback Jalen Hurts was the first ever freshmen starter in the Nick Saban era and he made the most of it. Hurts earned 2016 SEC Offensive Player of the Year, Newcomer of the Year and Freshman of the Year for his play.

Hurts threw for 2,780 passing yards, 23 passing touchdowns and ran for 954 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns. He was fourth in the conference in passing yards, third in passing touchdowns and third in rushing touchdowns.

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As a freshman, Hurts showed promise as an efficient passer and lethal threat on the ground as well. The Crimson Tide were 16th in the FBS in scoring offense, putting up 38.8 points per game. With more talent coming in, look for Hurts to elevate his play.

Entering his sophomore season, Hurts’ Heisman hopes depend on finding a new deep threat in the passing game. With the additions of newcomers receivers Jerry Jeudy, Tyrell Shavers and tight end Major Tennison, Hurts will look to take the Crimson Tide offense to new heights yet again this spring.

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