Heisman Watch: Sept. 19

1. CJ Stroud, QB, Ohio State    Odds: +200

Stats: 941 yards passing, 72.9 % completion, 11 TD, 0 INT

Stroud is on the team least likely to lose before the ceremony. Voters in all sports seem to try and find a reason not to give it to the guy who just won (See Michael Jordan in the 1990’s), and Stroud looks like the guy. 

2. Bryce Young, QB, Alabama    Odds: +500

Stats: 644 yards passing, 68.2 % completion, 9 TD, 2 INT, 144 rush yards, 2 TD

The only player to repeat as Heisman Trophy winner is Archie Griffin, the Ohio State RB who won the award in 1974 and 1975. The thing stopping Young from repeating will be his teammates. Jameson Williams isn’t walking through that door- neither is John Metchie or Jerry Jeudy or Jaylen Waddle or Devonta Smith. 

3. Caleb Williams, QB, USC Odds: +300

Stats: 874 yards passing, 74.4 % completion, 8 TD, 0 INT, 73 rushing yards, 2 TD

For some reason, USC, a team that hasn’t been in the national title picture is more relevant nationally than Oklahoma, which is in the CFP conversation almost every year. Williams has put up video game numbers in the first three weeks. 

4. Mohamed Ibrahim, RB, Michigan St.   Odds: +15000

Stats: 67 Rush, 464 Yards, 7 TD, 6.9 YPC

The fifth year senior doesn’t catch the ball, he doesn’t play for a title contender, but no matter. If he continues his pace, he hasn’t had fewer than 130 rushing yards or 2 TD,  

5. Braelon Allen, RB, Wisconsin  Odds: +20000

Stats: 50 Rush, 332 Yards, 5 TD, 6.6 YPC

Braelon Allen is six (6!) years younger than the 24-year-old Ibrahim, but they are the top two RB candidates in the Heisman race.