Heisman Watch: Week 2
It is only Week 3, but the Heisman race is already starting to heat up. Every player is looking to make an early statement to the voters that they deserve the Heisman, and these players are making that statement.
Bryce Young, Quarterback, Alabama
Bryce Young has been phenomenal in his first two career starts, and he is only going to get better. Young had huge shoes to fill by replacing Mac Jones, but it is crazy to think that maybe the Alabama offense is better now.
Young is completing 70.8% of his passes and has seven passing touchdowns in 2021. Young’s QBR is also amazing with a rating of 78.8 on a scale from 0-100.
Young’s numbers are not going to jump off the charts due to him not playing in the second halves of games, but his efficiency and talent make him an early frontrunner for the Heisman this year.
CJ Verdell, Running Back, Oregon
Oregon went on the road and upset Ohio State 35-28 on Saturday, and the biggest reason why was the play of star running back CJ Verdell.
Verdell was incredible, rushing for 161 yards and two touchdowns in the win, including a huge 77-yard touchdown. It seemed like a Heisman moment for Verdell, especially if the Ducks can run the table and finish undefeated and make the College Football Playoff.
Verdell had his standout performance in the biggest game of the year for the Ducks, giving himself a great chance to win the Heisman this year.
Desmond Ridder, Quarterback, Cincinnati
It is extremely hard for a player not in a Power Five conference to win the Heisman, but Desmond Ridder may have a shot.
Ridder is on one of the best teams in the country in Cincinnati, who are ranked No. 8 in the AP poll this week. Ridder is the leader on that team, and the Bearcats have a chance to make the College Football Playoff.
Ridder is completing 72.3% of his passes and has a QBR of 77.2. Ridder will also have great chances to play on the national stage when the Bearcats take on Indiana this week, and Notre Dame later this year.
Ridder is extremely talented and plays on a great team, giving him a shot at the Heisman trophy this year.
Spencer Rattler, Quarterback, Oklahoma
Every year, no matter who is playing the position, the quarterback for Oklahoma will be in the Heisman race. Spencer Rattler is an extremely talented player who will definitely be in the Heisman conversation all year.
In 2021, Rattler is completing 76.9% of his passes and has 549 passing yards. Rattler also has an incredible QBR of 84.2.
Sooners coach Lincoln Riley is one of the best offensive minds in college football, and he will ensure that Rattler has opportunities to make plays this year. When you pair that coach with the talent Rattler has, magic happens and it puts Spencer Rattler in the conversation for the Heisman this year.
Adam Sheetz is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email ads360@psu.edu.
