Heisman Trophy Watch 2017: 5 darkhorse candidates heading into November
By Dana Becker
How important has Kelly Bryant been to the reigning national champions? When he was less-than 100 percent and eventually knocked out vs. Syracuse, Clemson suffered its first loss this season.
Bryant hasn’t been on the same level of Deshaun Watson in terms of passing yards and touchdowns this year, but the junior from South Carolina has been just as important.
He has 1,375 yards passing and just four touchdowns to his credit with his arm, but Bryant has rushed for 393 yards and scored seven times with his legs. And as mentioned, his importance to the title defense of the Tigers is unquestioned.
What makes Bryant a darkhorse candidate? Much like Hurts, he will play in the spotlight as long as Clemson continues winning.
The Tigers return from their bye with a night game vs. Georgia Tech this weekend. A showdown with NC State awaits on the road after that, along with dates vs. Florida State and at South Carolina to end the year before a possible return to the ACC title game.
Bryant, if healthy, has shown Heisman-like flashes with his big-arm and legs. If Clemson wins out and he excels in those games, there is a slight chance Bryant pulls an invite to New York City.