A 5-step roadmap for how McKenzie Milton wins the 2018 Heisman Trophy

2. Milton will have to lead the nation’s top-ranked offense once again

The 2017 UCF offense was the best in the country. UCF ranked first in scoring in the FBS, averaging 48.2 points per game. The Knights ranked second in turnover margin, thanks in large part to finishing in the top 20 in fewest fumbles lost and fewest interceptions thrown. And the team ranked second behind just Oklahoma in terms of passing efficiency.

Milton’s 3700 passing yards and 600-plus rushing yards were a large part of why UCF succeeded in 2017. It was a boon for a program that was just two years removed from finishing the year 0-12. Milton’s productivity opened the door for an increased tempo on offense and more chances to take down opponents.

For the UCF quarterback to earn some serious Heisman consideration in 2018, he needs to once again lead the nation’s top-ranked offense. The Knights will be competing with their 2017 statistics, and Milton would do well to lead UCF to an average of more than 50 points per outing. If he managed to do that, Milton would have a serious Heisman case.

But even with all of that, there is still once more ingredient that is critical for any Group of Five player hoping to reach Manhattan and hoist the Heisman Trophy. Just as with any other candidate, winning is a critical component. For mid-major Heisman hopefuls, wins are essential.