Our 2019 Heisman Trophy countdown is down to the final two.
#15: Michigan QB Shea Patterson
#12: Ohio State QB Justin Fields
#10: Ohio State RB J.K. Dobbins
#7: Nebraska QB Adrian Martinez
Clemson sophomore quarterback Trevor Lawrence tops many Heisman candidate shortlists entering 2019, and for good reason.
Why he can win it
Lawrence leads the defending national champs and preseason No. 1—a team that should push for an undefeated regular season and is the best bet to win their conference and make the College Football Playoff. As a true freshman that split time to open the year, Lawrence put up tremendous, efficient numbers (30 touchdowns, four interceptions) and those statistics might be his floor if he stays healthy in 2019. Lawrence is considered the best player in the nation by many, and the best player on the best team should have a very strong Heisman candidacy.
Why he won’t win it
Teammate Travis Etienne is a top Heisman candidate himself that could take votes away from Lawrence. Clemson’s biggest out-of-conference game (and perhaps their toughest test of the regular season) comes on September 7, which will likely not be in front of the Heisman voters’ minds at the end of the race.
What must happen
Clemson must make the College Football Playoff again, with Lawrence leading the way with spectacular numbers.
Stat projection
304/447 (68.0%) | 4,023 PASS YDS | 41 PASS TD | 3 INT
68 CAR | 265 RUSH YDS | 2 RUSH TD | 3.9 AVG
*NOTE: White Wolf is not affiliated with the Heisman Trophy. This article is a staff opinion and is not an official Heisman Trophy watch.
He’ll probably win it if Clemson goes undefeated.