The Final Sprint for the Heisman Trophy
Only a handful of players will get one more opportunity to make their case for the Heisman Trophy, and FOX Sports college football analyst Robert Griffin III, the 2011 Heisman winner, believes it’s a three-man race heading into conference championship weekend. In his podcast, “Outta Pocket with RGIII,” Griffin has named Jacob Rodriguez, Fernando Mendoza, and Julian Sayin as the frontrunners for the prestigious award. Each of these players has had a stellar season, but their performances in the upcoming championship games will likely determine the final outcome.
Jacob Rodriguez: A Defensive Dynamo
Jacob Rodriguez’s inclusion in the Heisman conversation might surprise some, especially given the typical focus on offensive players. However, Rodriguez, a linebacker for Texas Tech, has been a standout this season. He has amassed 101 total tackles, one sack, seven forced fumbles, and four interceptions, along with three total touchdowns. More importantly, Rodriguez has been the linchpin of a Texas Tech defense that ranks in the top six in both total and scoring defense, helping the Red Raiders achieve an impressive 11-1 record. Texas Tech will face No. 11 BYU in the Big 12 Championship Game, and a strong performance could solidify Rodriguez’s place in Heisman lore.
Fernando Mendoza: A Dual-Threat QB
Fernando Mendoza, the quarterback for Indiana, has been a dominant force this season. He has thrown for 2,758 yards and a nation-leading 32 touchdowns, with just five interceptions. Mendoza has also demonstrated his ability to run, rushing for five touchdowns and 243 yards. Leading what Griffin considers the best team in the country, Indiana will take on Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship Game. This high-stakes matchup will be a crucial test for Mendoza, and a strong performance could propel him to the top of the Heisman list.
Julian Sayin: A Statistical Powerhouse
Julian Sayin, the quarterback for Ohio State, is another contender with impressive stats. He has thrown for 3,065 yards, 30 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. Sayin’s performance has been key to Ohio State’s success, and he will have the opportunity to make a final statement in the Big Ten Championship Game against Indiana. Griffin sees this game as a potential battle of Heisman candidates, with the winner likely to secure a spot in New York for the Heisman ceremony.
RGIII’s Heisman List: A Closer Look
In his latest Heisman list, Griffin ranks Jacob Rodriguez at the top, citing his defensive dominance and leadership. Rodriguez’s numbers are particularly notable when compared to those of Manti Te’o, the 2012 Heisman runner-up. Rodriguez has 101 tackles, 5.5 more tackles for loss than Te’o, seven more forced fumbles, and three total touchdowns, while Te’o had zero. Griffin believes these numbers, along with Texas Tech’s defensive prowess, make a strong case for Rodriguez to be in New York.
Fernando Mendoza, ranked third by Griffin, is leading what the analyst considers the best team in the country. Mendoza’s performance in the Big Ten Championship Game against Ohio State will be crucial. Griffin believes this game will be the deciding factor in determining who will leave championship weekend with the Heisman Trophy.
Julian Sayin, ranked fifth, has been a statistical powerhouse for Ohio State. While his stats are impressive, Griffin sees the Big Ten Championship Game as his final opportunity to make a strong case for the Heisman.
Other Notable Performances
While Griffin’s list focuses on the top three candidates, he also mentions Pavia from Vanderbilt and Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame. Pavia’s impact on Vanderbilt has been significant, and his performances have been exciting. However, Griffin believes that the other candidates are more worthy of a spot in New York. Jeremiyah Love, the running back for Notre Dame, has had an outstanding season, but the fact that Notre Dame is not playing this weekend diminishes his chances of winning the Heisman.
The Final Push
As the college football season reaches its climax, the race for the Heisman Trophy is as competitive as ever. Jacob Rodriguez, Fernando Mendoza, and Julian Sayin will have one last chance to make their case in the conference championship games. The performances of these players over the next few days could determine who joins the ranks of college football’s most elite players. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting and historic weekend.
