There are numerous awards given annually to the best players at each position in college football. In the hopes of one day being acknowledged for their contribution to the sport, players from all over the nation dream of having the chance to demonstrate their talents to spectators and the rest of the college football community.
The Johnny Unitas Golden Arm, Jim Thorpe, Biletnikoff, Maxwell, and Davey O'Brien Awards are a few of the most coveted honors. The Davey O'Brien and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm awards go to the nation's top quarterbacks. The Jim Thorpe Award is given to the best defensive back, the Biletnikoff Award is given to the best wide receiver, and the Maxwell Award is given to the top college football player of the year. While each of these awards is well respected among the world of college football, there is one that trumps them all, and that is known as the Heisman trophy, which is awarded to the most outstanding player in all of college football. Learn about the Heisman trophy here.
There are currently four players in college football who have distinguished themselves this season due to their excellent performance on the football field. Each of these people is regarded as a strong leader and a dominant player by their fellow teammates. Caleb Williams of Southern California is the current Heisman frontrunner thanks to his incredible performance against rival Notre Dame, which the media and fans dubbed as the quarterback's "Heisman moment." When the lights are the brightest and the competition is the fiercest in a game, a player who perseveres and dominates on the field is said to have experienced a Heisman moment. Williams' explosion, which resulted in four touchdowns in all, helped the Trojans defeat the Fighting Irish 38–27 after it initially seemed as though the game between the two teams was at a standstill. Watch Williams play here.
Caleb Williams Represents the USC Trojans
Ohio State quarterback CJ Stroud, who was also a finalist the previous year, is another quarterback recognized as a Heisman finalist. Due to his dominance in passing statistics and top quarterback rating across all of college football, Stroud was widely regarded as the front-runner in the Heisman race. The quarterback for the Buckeyes is regarded as one of the best in the nation for accuracy. The Heisman Trophy is intended to recognize players who excel throughout the entire season. Stroud has had a stellar season throwing for over thirty touchdowns, but on November 26 against Michigan, he struggled. When the game stopped being close, the junior quarterback continued to play well but was forced to take unnecessary risks, which eventually led to two interceptions resulting in a loss. Although CJ may not win the Heisman he will be considered for other awards. Some of Stroud’s best plays can be seen here.
CJ Stroud Represents the Ohio State Buckeyes
Football is known for being a physically demanding sport, and while coaches, players, and fans all genuinely love it, it is unfortunate when special players are having outstanding seasons only to get hurt when their team most needs them. Many were shocked to see Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker perform at such a high level. Hooker threw five touchdown passes as he guided his team to a resounding victory over the top-ranked Alabama team at the time. Hooker was close to securing the Heisman, but his chances were dashed when he had to leave a rout against South Carolina due to a torn ACL. Here are Hooker’s highlights prior to the injury.
Hendon Hooker Represents the Tennessee Volunteers
Another example of an elite player deserving of the Heisman but would also be injured was Michigan running back Blake Corum who has been praised for his hard running style. The junior running back is the best in the big ten conference and had moments in games which were outstanding. Most notably his back-to-back games of rushing for over 160 yards both against Penn state and Michigan state. Corum would rush for over 1400 rushing yards and eight teen touchdowns before injuring his leg against Illinois. Both Corum and Hooker are examples of elite talent that had their seasons cut short but will persevere when healthy. Corum’s best runs can be seen here.
Blake Corum Represents the Michigan Wolverines
The Heisman Trophy, the most prestigious honor in college football, ensures that the nation's top player is honored for their achievements. There can only be one winner, but Williams, Stroud, Hooker, and Corum are all deserving candidates.
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