The Heisman Trophy chase is more of a marathon than a sprint, so Week 2 would present plenty of opportunities for the candidates to make statements. Here’s a rundown of 10 stars who could see substantial jumps in their Heisman chances in Week 2.
Top 10 Heisman Candidates Who Could Rise in Week 2
1. Arch Manning, Texas
Manning’s Week 1 decline might have opened up the field, but despite a subpar 170 yards, one touchdown, and one interception performance in the opener, he’s arguably the best player on the field and should start rehabilitating his campaign.
2. John Mateer, Oklahoma
Mateer’s 392 yards passing led the SEC. If he can keep Oklahoma competitive in the league’s CFP hunt, he could well climb into the top notches of the Heisman field.
3. Julian Sayin, Ohio State
Sayin had the advantage of winning over Texas in the big Week 1 battle. But a conservative game plan and an early lead left him somewhat unable to show his massive skill set. Sayin ended up with just 126 yards passing and will likely use an easy week to flex his Heisman muscle a bit.
4. Jeremiah Smith, Ohio State
Along the same lines, Smith, who is probably the nation’s top wide receiver, didn’t get many chances to make plays in Week 1. He had six receptions for just 43 yards. It’s safe to say that Smith should equal those numbers in the first half of Saturday’s game against Grambling.
5. Gunner Stockton, Georgia
Stockton had a solid Week 1 performance against a weak opponent, Marshall. Stockton threw for 190 yards and two scores. He also rushed for a game-high 73 yards and two more scores. He’ll get another chance to showcase his dual-threat game in Week 2.
6. Dante Moore, Oregon
Against an FCS foe in Week 1, Moore didn’t get much of a chance to post significant numbers. He threw for 213 yards and three scores on just 23 pass attempts. Since he won the Oregon QB job, Moore automatically should have become a solid Heisman contender.
7. DJ Lagway, Florida
Lagway played just under a half in Florida‘s 55-0 easy win over Long Island. He attempted only 18 passes, throwing as many touchdowns as incomplete passes (three). A game against South Florida should allow Lagway to get more snaps and make more plays.
8. Bryce Underwood, Michigan
One of the most intriguing players to watch in Week 2 is Underwood. He passed for 251 yards and a score in an easy Week 1 win over New Mexico. But now he plays at No. 18 Oklahoma on the road. Freshmen usually have a tough road to be serious Heisman candidates, but if anybody can, Underwood is likely the all-around standout with the best opportunity.
9. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
Nussmeier already boosted his candidacy with a Week 1 win at Clemson. Nussmeier threw for 232 yards and a touchdown, but like several players above, was stuck in a game management mode for the 17-10 win. Nussmeier will now face an FCS foe, Louisiana, and should have the freedom to go after big plays and rack up some impressive numbers.
10. Tommy Castellanos, Florida State
Perhaps the surprise star of Week 1, the FSU QB made a real jump in the Heisman assessment. Castellanos led a 31-17 upset of Alabama. He did much of his work on the ground, running for 78 yards and a score. Through the air, he took a few chances, going 9 for 14 for 152 yards. He already has momentum and with better stats, could rise the Heisman ladder.
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