Week 8 Heisman Watch: Everett Golson

Georgia running back Todd Gurley’s investigation and indefinite suspension for allegedly receiving payments in exchange for signing memorabilia is nothing short of top news in college sports. While a finding has yet to be made or an official punishment (or reinstatement) to be handed down to the Bulldogs’ star running back, Gurley has recently been left off most Heisman watch lists, which he had recently topped after several outstanding performances.

While this is heartbreaking news for the Bulldogs and their fans, it has reopened the race for many Heisman hopefuls. Mississippi State recently moved to the number one spot in the AP poll, and their quarterback Dak Prescott has been mentioned as the favorite to take home the Heisman after the first seven weeks of the season. However, with seven more weeks left in the regular season, both the rankings and the Heisman watch lists are subject to change.

Most recently, Notre Dame’s quarterback Everett Golson has moved all the way to number four on ESPN’s official Heisman list. Notre Dame continues to advance each week in the AP poll and Golson been impressive to say the least since his return as Notre Dame’s quarterback after enduring a year-long suspension for academic violations.

Facing the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Jameis Winston, tomorrow night could be a huge opportunity for Golson to prove himself and establish a legitimate position among Heisman contenders. Over the first six games, he has posted a completion rate of over 62% and has thrown over 1,600 yards, 16 touchdowns to only four interceptions.

Although standing only 6-foot-1, not very tall for a quarterback by most standards, Golson has further demonstrated his abilities and a career in the NFL is certainly possible. Of the eleven Heisman candidates, Golson is one of only four players who have led their team to an undefeated start to the season.

Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott, Baylor quarterback Bryce Petty, and Ole Miss quarterback Bo Wallace also have yet to lose a game this season. Ole Miss is currently No. 3 in the AP Poll and Baylor is No. 4.

The next few weeks could establish which four or five Heisman hopefuls make it to the award show in New York as several of the top ten teams play each other in the remaining weeks of the regular season.

 

*Section Photo credit to Jonathan Daniel, Getty Images; Featured Photo (above) credit to Matt Cashore, USA Today Sports.

Week 8 Preview: (15) Oklahoma State at (12) TCU
Week 8 Preview: (15) Oklahoma State at (12) TCU