Top 5 Heisman Candidates for 2012

Excitement is once again in the air with college football just around the corner and the race to prove who is the nation’s premier player should be exhilarating to watch unfold this season. Here is an examination of the top 5 Heisman candidates entering the season.

Matt Barkley, USC Trojans, QB

With Andrew Luck out of the way, Matt Barkley should have an incredible season with even more chemistry built with the prolific wide receiving tandem of Robert Woods and Marquise Lee.  Known as a perfectionist on the field, he is the general who gives Lane Kiffin a chance to have his first undefeated season for the Troy. Barkley threw for 39 TDs and just 7 ints last season.

Landry Jones, Oklahoma Sooners, QB

Motivation is the key for many great players and after underachieving last season, the expectations from many fans are that Landry Jones would rebound and perform up to his great potential this season.  Known as a great leader and a bit of a risk taker on the field, he should have tremendous success executing Bob Stoops’ spread offense.  Jones threw for 29 TDs and 15 ints  last season.

Denard Robinson, Michigan, QB

Shoelace knows how to capitalize on opportunities and since the Wolverines start the season against a talented Crimson Tide defense and finishes the season at the Shoe against the Buckeyes, he has the opportunity to leave a memorable impression in many voters’ mind at the beginning and the end of the season. I love the fact that he also is the most versatile quarterback in the nation.  Robinson will improve on his stats of 20 TDs and 15 ints from last season.

Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina, RB

Mark Ingram had his time, Trent Richardson had his time, now it is time for Marcus Lattimore to fully step not only to the forefront of the SEC, but the national stage.  Defenses will be geared to stop him, but with his surprising ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, that is an impossible task. He is by far the best in between the tackles and perimeter runner in college football. Fresh off of 2011 injury filled season where he rushed for 10 TDS, 818 yards, expectations are that he will not only be the best running back in college football, but possibly the best overall player.

De’Anthony Thomas, Oregon, RB

The Black Mamba is the fastest player in the nation and has the playmaking ability that takes the breath of fans away every time he touches the ball.  With Chip Kelly committed to making sure Thomas touches the ball at least 15 to 20 times a game, he certainly will get his chance to prove he is most dangerous player in the nation this season.  Throw in the fact that he is the best punt and kick returner in the nation and by season’s end the whole nation will be quacking about his on field exploits.   He finished 2011 with 2235 all purpose yards and 7 TDs.