Heisman Watch 2017: Running back leads Heisman race after Week 1
By Zach Bigalke
Notables
- LEADER BOARDS: 1st in FBS in total touchdowns (4)
- RUSHING: 23 carries, 150 yards, 4 touchdowns
- OTHER: 4 receptions for 50 yards
During a largely disappointing 2016 season, Royce Freeman failed to break the 1000-yard mark as injuries nagged at his effectiveness. After failing to build on the promise of his 2015 sophomore season, Freeman entered 2017 mostly under the radar.
Many thought he wouldn’t even be here, especially given the limited window of opportunity for talented running backs to get paid. But Freeman came back to Eugene to play for Willie Taggart in his senior season, and he did so without much national notice. He was even left off the initial preseason Doak Walker Award watch list, only added later after justifiable outcry about his omission.
Freeman made the nation take notice in a largely academic exercise against FCS Southern Utah on Saturday. The senior running back racked up 25 carries for 150 yards and four touchdowns. In the process, Freeman took the national lead in terms of both rushing touchdowns and total touchdowns scored.
Big games against Nebraska’s defense could vault him further up the Heisman race next week. The award is not won in September, but Freeman is certainly making his name noticed once again this month.