Heisman Trophy watch list: Top 5 candidates ahead of Week 7

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Oct 7, 2023; Dallas, Texas, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Dillon Gabriel (8) in action during the game between the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Dillon Gabriel may very well be the most overlooked quarterback in the country. It seems like Oklahoma grows Heisman Trophy contenders on trees and the UCF transfer is just the latest in a long line of talented passers to contend for the award in Norman.

Through six games, Gabriel has 1,878 yards (6th in the country) and 16 touchdowns (3rd nationally). And he’s also used his legs to the tune of 208 yards and five more scores. So through six games, he’s accounted for over 2,000 yards and 21 touchdowns. He’s on pace for over 4,000 total yards and 40-plus touchdowns.

That’s absolutely Heisman-worthy.

And he had a major Heisman moment in Week 6, throwing a game-winning touchdown in the Red River Rivalry with under 20 seconds left. He was the star of the rivalry game.

Not only is he putting up big numbers, but he’s led Oklahoma to a 6-0 record to start the year after a disappointing 2022 season. This turnaround has a lot to do with Gabriel’s improvement.

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