Heisman Watch 2017: Running back leads Heisman race after Week 1
By Zach Bigalke
Notables
- LEADER BOARDS: 2nd nationally in total offense (485 YPG)
- PASSING: 30-of-46 for 378 yards, 2 touchdowns vs 0 interceptions
- OTHER: 21 carries for 107 yards (0 sacks), 1 fumble lost
Last year’s Heisman winner is back for Louisville, and Lamar Jackson made a solid case to start his trophy defense. He completed 65 percent of his passes on the road against Purdue for 378 yards and tossed two touchdowns. Jackson also racked up 107 yards on the ground after carrying 21 times.
After an electric redshirt sophomore season, Jackson showcased his arm and his legs in West Lafayette. But it took a while for the Cardinals to get into the game, as three costly fumbles (including one by Jackson) stalled the Louisville offense.
The defending title holder is on an unbeaten team, albeit one with plenty of wrinkles to iron out before ACC play begins. For now he remains in the top three of the race after vaulting up to second in the country in total offense generated.
It is always going to be hard for a Heisman winner to replicate and surpass his previous feats. Only one player has actually managed to successfully defend a Heisman, but Jackson certainly got a good statistical start as he tries to become the second.