Ranking 2021 Heisman Trophy contenders going into championship week

Heisman Trophy Candidate No. 2: Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan

It’s hard to know how many Heisman voters have turned in their ballots already, but the deadline is Monday and in one of the closest races ever, you’d think they’d wait for the end of the season.

Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson’s only chance is that many did. He was incredible last week with three sacks and Iowa’s offensive line is susceptible to giving up sacks, so he could easily have another big day in the Big Ten title game. He’s already got 13 for the season and has been the country’s most impactful defender.

Michigan hasn’t won the Big Ten title since 2004 and if Hutchinson is able to help carry the Wolverines across the finish line, it would have to leave an impression.

Heisman Trophy Candidate No. 1: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

The past two weeks against Arkansas and Auburn, Bryce Young was fantastic, especially when he needed to be. Without his clutch play against the Tigers last week, Alabama would have another loss and effectively be out of the playoff conversation.

But Young rallied his squad and might have put together his defining moment. The question is how much will it be spoiled if Georgia wins and does so convincingly?

Young is tied for second in touchdown passes and is 6th in passing yards. He’s also facing one of the best defenses in recent college football memory, so a lot is at stake and it feels like a lot can change in the Heisman race this Saturday.