Heisman Watch (Week 8)

After a very boring start to the college football season we finally have some fireworks. Last week we had several upsets, but that was nothing compared to what we saw this weekend. You had Florida State blowing out Clemson and the whole SEC got turned over. Add in Louisville's loss to UCF and that puts a blow on a crazy weekend. Where does that put everybody in the Heisman Watch?

1. Marcus Mariota QB Oregon

Last Week:  23/32 327 yards passing 2 TDs, 67 yards rushing TD Washington State (62-38) Next Week: vs UCLA
Summary:  Lost in all the shuffle is that Oregon had another dominating performance lead by their star quarterback.  Against the pesky Washington State Cougars Mariota had another 300+ passing day while throwing two more touchdowns.  What's even more impressive is through 197 total passes Mariota has still not thrown a single interception.  He may not be as flashy as other candidates, but he is incredible efficient while leading the primer offense in the nation.  He'll get his chance to have signature moments as the Ducks face off against UCLA and Stanford the next two weeks.

2. Jameis Winston QB Florida State

Last Week:  22/34 444 yards passing 3 TDs INT, rushing TD at Clemson (51-14)  Next Week:  vs North Carolina State
Summary:  Famous Jameis didn't disappoint in the biggest game of the season.  In a do or die game Winston made his presence felt immediately. In what turned out to be a blow out, Winston threw for 444 yards and had four total touchdowns. This performance vaults the freshman right in the thick of the race and a battle with Marcus Mariota. But Florida State's schedule is pretty week going forward, so Winston will need some huge games against inferior competition if he wants to win.

3. Johnny Manziel QB Texas A&M

Last Week:  28/38 454 yards 4 TDs 2 INTs, 48 yards rushing TD vs Auburn (41-45) Next Week: vs Vanderbilt
Summary:  It was only a matter of time before the Aggies lost again. But you can't put all the blame on Manziel who once again sparkled. He had over 500 yards and accounted for five touchdowns. Manziel did have two interceptions, but both of those came early on tipped passes. Despite those early struggles, Manziel was able to lead the Aggies back and take the lead with five minutes to go. But that wasn't enough to get the victory. This doesn't hurt Manziel's stock in the Heisman. He's right in the thick of it and with a tough remaining schedule he can still impress enough to make a run at his second Heisman. But it's going to be an uphill climb.

4. Bryce Petty QB Baylor

Last Week: 23/31 343 2 TDs, rushing TD vs Iowa State (71-7) Next Week: at Kansas
Summary: If you haven't seen Baylor quarterback Bryce Petty play, maybe it's because you blinked while watching them. With how fast the Bears play and how quick they score it's understandable. But what you do see is the record numbers he is putting up. Against Iowa State the Bears racked up 71 points while Petty threw for 343 yards and two touchdowns. Petty also added a rushing touchdown for good measure. With the Bears ranked in the top five now and on pace to set NCAA record you have to really take notice of him in the Heisman Race.

5. Tajh Boyd QB Clemson

Last Week:   17/37 156 yards TD 2 INTs vs Florida State (14-51) Next Week: at Maryland
Summary:  Clemson's loss and Boyd's performance against Florida State is a big hit in his quest to win the Heisman Trophy. His less than 200 yards passing and two interceptions didn't help the Tigers stay in the game and make it competitive. But what helps Boyd is that the Heisman Race is still far from over. It may take a long shot, but besides Mariota, Winston, and Manziel there really isn't anybody else. But this will also take Boyd to have a flawless rest of the season and hope that the guys ahead of him stumble. But don't count on it.