Heisman Watch 2017: Running back leads Heisman race after Week 1
By Zach Bigalke
Notables
- LEADER BOARDS: 1st in FBS in all-purpose yardage (246 YPG)
- RUSHING: 14 carries, 172 yards, 2 touchdowns
- OTHER: 3 receptions for 54 yards, 1 kick return for 20 yards
Penn State actually didn’t give many carries to its star running back to begin its home opener against Akron. Saquon Barkley didn’t touch the ball on the first offensive series. He started the next drive with 22 yards on three straight carries, but then was forgotten about once again.
Once Joe Moorhead remembered the weapon at his disposal, though, Barkley went off. On his 14 carries against Akron, Barkley averaged 12.3 yards per rush and racked up two touchdowns on the ground. He added another 20 yards on a kick return and 54 yards on three receptions, including a long wheel route that went for over 40 yards.
Barkley certainly wasn’t overshadowed by quarterback play in this game. All signs point to the Penn State offense only being as dangerous as Barkley is effective. He will need to remain healthy if Penn State is going to have a shot at repeating as Big Ten champions. And if they do repeat as Big Ten champs, Barkley will be holding the Nittany Lions’ second Heisman in school history.
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He saw limited play against a MAC opponent, as was to be expected. Yet Barkley still leads the nation in all-purpose yardage. He was efficient and ruthless against the Zips, averaging 13.7 yards on all touches to start 2017 off on a winning note in Happy Valley.