Heisman Watch: Week 8
Joe’s Pick: James Washington, WR, Oklahoma State
The position of wide receiver is filled with playmakers, but rarely gets the hype needed for the Heisman as it is a position that does not touch the ball as much as running backs or quarterbacks. Since 2000, Larry Fitzgerald and Amari Cooper are the only receivers to finish in the top three of the voting, with Fitzgerald finishing second in 2003.
Oklahoma State wide receiver James Washington has a chance to change that as he showed his game-breaking ability against Baylor last week with 235 yards and a touchdown on six receptions. His six touchdowns are a bit low, but his 25.9 yards per reception is explosive in an up-tempo Cowboy offense.
Washington does not play against the cream of the crop defensive backs in the conference, but his ability to make big plays in the passing game is unquestioned. His performance against Texas is imperative as the Longhorns possess some of the best cornerbacks in the conference.
Josh’s Pick: Baker Mayfield, QB, Oklahoma
Coming off of a shocking loss to Iowa State, Mayfield and Oklahoma rebounded with a 29-24 win over Texas. Mayfield played well in the bounce back win, throwing for 302 yards and two touchdowns.
So far this season, Mayfield has accumulated 1,937 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, and only one interception. Taking care of the football has been a key for Mayfield. His decision making has led to more opportunities for him to throw the ball and help his Heisman case.
Mayfield has been a model of consistency so far this season. He has thrown for 300 or more yards in all but one of Oklahoma’s games this year. He has also found the end zone at least twice in every game so far.
Now past the halfway point of the College Football season, Mayfield has solidified himself as a top contender for the Heisman Trophy. He will continue to be the leader of the Oklahoma offense and have every chance to keep producing Heisman worthy numbers.
Hunter’s Pick: Jake Fromm, QB, Georgia
The Georgia Bulldogs went from being Alabama’s understudy in the SEC to national championship contenders in only one season. Sophomore Jacob Eason had flashes of brilliance last year as the starting quarterback for the Bulldogs. That being said, Eason suffered a sprain in his left knee, causing him to miss significant time. Many top college football analysts were ruling out Georgia, claiming that they wouldn’t be the same without their prized quarterback.
Freshman quarterback Jake Fromm had to grow up quick and get behind the center as he was now given the keys to the offense. Since Fromm stepped into the starting role, the Bulldogs haven’t looked back since.
Georgia boasts a record of 7-0, as the team is atop of the SEC East. Although the Bulldogs have a highly touted running back in Nick Chubb as well as a talented defense, Jake Fromm has made the biggest impact on the team. Currently stilling as the No. 3 team in the nation, Georgia looks ready to take on any challengers that stand in their way of winning a national championship.
Fromm is a young player who looks like he is improving every game this season. He currently has 1,162 passing yards, 15 total touchdowns, and a 62 completion percentage. Georgia has been demolishing their opponents, and it appears they don’t have any difficult games until potentially the SEC Championship. Head coach Kirby Smart has expressed his confidence in his new starting quarterback, due to the high level he has been playing at. If Georgia continues its dominance for the duration of the season, don’t be surprised if Jake Fromm sneaks his way into the Heisman conversation.
Joseph Esquivel-Murphy is a senior majoring in broadcast journalism and Spanish. To contact him, email jje5139@psu.edu.
Josh Starr is a freshman majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email joshlstarr16@gmail.com.
Hunter Pitcoff is a freshman majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, email hxp80@psu.edu.
