Heisman Race: Week 8
Jayden Daniels is making a strong Heisman case after another efficient performance. Photo: David Grunfeld, Nola.com
Michael Penix, Jr., QB, Washington
His hold on the top spot got a lot weaker after a no touchdown, 3 turnover game against Arizona State. He gets the benefit of the doubt after the numbers put up prior, and they great game against Oregon. Any more of these clunkers though and he’ll be on the outside.
Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
The guy making the biggest move right now has to be Daniels. After a 3 TD, 96 QBR game against Army, he leads the nation in TD passes and trails Penix by 3 yards. 2nd in the nation in QBR at 91.7.
Dillon Gabriel, QB, Oklahoma
Gabriel played fine in the close win over UCF. He didn’t do anything in particular to move up or down, but did lead the team on crucial scoring drives late. Needs to play much better in matchups with Kansas and the Bedlam game in order to garner more serious consideration. If not, a trip to New York could fade as other contenders play higher stakes games down the stretch.
J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
Entering the top 5 of these rankings for the first time, I can no longer ignore the numbers. The leader in QBR in FBS at 93.7. Has only thrown 4 passes in the 4th quarter this season, however. Probably needs to prove a clutch ability at some point to be a serious contender to win.
Bo Nix, QB, Oregon
Nix had another good game with a couple TDs tossed in the win over Wazzu. Still has only one INT thrown on the year. Can earn some serious Heisman cred with a good performance and win at Utah this week.
On the outside looking in: Marvin Harrison, Jr., Jordan Travis, Caleb Williams
