Wahoo Wire

Photo Courtesy of Sports Illustrated

So now we actually have some raw data to ponder in the search for this year’s Heisman Trophy winner.  This week was somewhat of a challenge though, because most teams played the creamiest of creampuffs (San Jose State and Marshall were by no means difficult draws for Alabama or Ohio State, respectively).   Some players, though, like that one in blue and orange on Monday night, won in big spots and are rewarded on this week’s list.  And, no, last week’s list is not well represented, but it’s only the first week.

Andrew Luck, Quarterback, Stanford

I left Mr. Luck off the list last week because he didn’t really show much last season.  Now I’m not so skeptical.  This weekend he completed 17 of his 23 pass attempts for 316 yards and 4 touchdowns.  In my book he hit all three points: good completion percentage, over 300 yards passing, and more touchdowns than turnovers. If he keeps up these kinds of stats, which is absolutely possible under coach Harbaugh in the uncertain cauldron that is the Pac-10, Luck could certainly be the nation’s top player when all is said and done.  After watching this weekend’s games, it seems he might be in a weak enough conference to make it possible.

Ryan Mallett, QB, Arkansas

Remember when he was that goofy freshman playing quarterback at Michigan?  Well, now he’s not so goofy.  Mallet followed up last season’s big campaign (3627 yards, 30 TDs, 7 Ints) with a 21 for 24 day, producing 301 yards and three touchdowns with only one interception.  At 6’ 6” and 238 lbs, he is a utopian quarterback, able to stand in the pocket then rocket the ball from Fayetteville to Tuscaloosa.  He does have to play in the devilish league that is the SEC, but, at this rate, he may be able to snag a Heisman and an SEC title.

Denard Robinson, QB, Michigan

Robinson did not look goofy at all under center for the Wolverines in their opener.  In fact, not only did he nearly pull an elusive 200 yards passing/200 yards rushing game (he passed for 186, ran for 197) but also he did it against a respectable UConn team, a team many picked to beat Michigan.  383 total yards and two (one passing, one rushing) touchdowns later, the Big House was rocking with a good vibe, the first time that’s happened since Rich Rodriguez arrived.  Robinson is a long shot right now because he is on no one’s radar, but that could all change with another big game against the Golden Domers in South Bend.

Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State

Ice.  In.  His. Veins.  I think it’s safe to say Moore is the favorite to win the Heisman, at least at this point.  He is the only person on this list to beat a top ten team this week, much less a top 25 team.  And he did it dramatically.  Moore led the Broncos down the field with a minute and a half remaining to score a decisive touchdown.  He didn’t throw a pick against a defense that, the youth argument aside, will end up being highly ranked by the end of the season.  The Broncos should drive toward an undefeated season now, and Moore’s stats will only get better against inferior opponents (excluding Oregon State…maybe).

Hoo’dve Thought? Keith Payne, Running Back, UVA

The Payne Train had 114 yards on 16 carries and four touchdowns and Richmond is no pushover, as far as FCS schools go.  He powered through Richmond’s defense, decimating their line with his bruising size 6’3” and 255 pounds.  Granted, Payne is not on the national radar by any means…yet.  All he has to do is have a similar game against USC this Saturday, who gave up a lot of yards down the middle of the field to Hawaii, mind you. Long shot?  Yes.  Tantalizing possibility?  Without a doubt.  All Aboard the Payne Train!  Next Stop: Downtown Athletic Club!