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This year's Heisman race is as wide open as the playoff picture. There are more than 10 one loss teams that have the opportunity to win the rest of their games and earn their way into the 4 team playoff. This year's Heisman could be very well be one of those players on a one loss team who will lead his team to the first ever 4 team college playoff.

5. Clint Trickett QB West Virginia

The Mountaineers do not control their own destiny and if they do not beat TCU this weekend you can take Trickett's name right off of this list. However, his QB play for the year cannot go unnoticed. 

5th in passing yards, 13th in total QBR, 10th in completion percentage, he has thrown for 300+ yards in 7/8 games. If Clint can lead his team to a victory against TCU and TCU goes on to beat Kansas State, West Virginia will be right in the hunt for the Big 12 championship and the Heisman discussion would heat up for Mr. Trickett.

4. Hau'oli Kikaha OLB Washington

The Huskies 5-3 record with a 1-3 record in the PAC 12 will not help his case. However, his 14.5 sacks in 8 games against top competition should earn some votes. He has 5.5 sacks in 2 games against Marcus Mariota and Jared Goff who hold the #1 and #8 passer ratings, respectively. 

The most sacks in a season since 2000 is held by Terrel Suggs who had 24 in 2002. He is on pace for 23.5 sacks this season. If he has 20+ sacks this season it would be a crime if he is not in the top 3 in Heisman voting. 

3. Duke Johnson RB Miami FL

Duke has 1,260 total yards to go along with 8 TDs. Miami has won their 3 out of their last 4 games thanks to Duke Johnson averaging 167 yards per game in those 4 matches. 

If Duke Johnson has a chance at the Heisman, the Miami Hurricanes must win their remaining 4 games while Duke Johnson continue to tear up the box score. He will win the trophy on November 15th when the Hurricanes play #2 Florida State down in South Florida. If Miami takes down Florida State behind a 200+ yard perfomance by Duke Johnson he should be considered as a candidate for the Heisman Trophy. 

2. Anu Solomon QB Arizona

2,400 Passing Yards 20 TDs 4 INT. Oregon is currently the first team out of the 4 team playoff but what about the only team that beat Oregon? Arizona controls their own destiny. They can win their remaining 5 games and meet Oregon in the Pac-12 championship game, assuming Oregon wins out as well. 

A 12-1 Arizona team with 2 wins against Oregon would be impossible to keep out of the 4 team playoff. Freshman QB Anu Solomon has been playing great football so far but will need to get better each week if they want their fairytale to contain a happy ending. 

1. Ameer Abdullah RB Nebraska

Ameer is making his way up the Heisman boards but is still not considered a favorite. He is leading the nation with 1,249 rushing yards and has 17 TDs. The one glaring game on his resume is a 24 carry 45 yard performance in their only loss against Michigan State. 

If both Michigan State and Nebraska win out they will face each other in the Big Ten championship game. Ameer could get his redemption and seal himself as a Heisman favorite with a great game and victory against the Spartans. A one loss Big Ten champion could aslo be in the playoff conversation if there are multiple 2 loss teams. 

This year's Heisman race is as wide open as the playoff picture. There are more than 10 one loss teams that have the opportunity to win the rest of their games and earn their way into the 4 team playoff. This year's Heisman could be very well be one of those players on a one loss team who will lead his team to the first ever 4 team college playoff.

5. Clint Trickett QB West Virginia

The Mountaineers do not control their own destiny and if they do not beat TCU this weekend you can take Trickett's name right off of this list. However, his QB play for the year cannot go unnoticed. 

5th in passing yards, 13th in total QBR, 10th in completion percentage, he has thrown for 300+ yards in 7/8 games. If Clint can lead his team to a victory against TCU and TCU goes on to beat Kansas State, West Virginia will be right in the hunt for the Big 12 championship and the Heisman discussion would heat up for Mr. Trickett.

4. Hau'oli Kikaha OLB Washington

The Huskies 5-3 record with a 1-3 record in the PAC 12 will not help his case. However, his 14.5 sacks in 8 games against top competition should earn some votes. He has 5.5 sacks in 2 games against Marcus Mariota and Jared Goff who hold the #1 and #8 passer ratings, respectively. 

The most sacks in a season since 2000 is held by Terrel Suggs who had 24 in 2002. He is on pace for 23.5 sacks this season. If he has 20+ sacks this season it would be a crime if he is not in the top 3 in Heisman voting. 

3. Duke Johnson RB Miami FL

Duke has 1,260 total yards to go along with 8 TDs. Miami has won their 3 out of their last 4 games thanks to Duke Johnson averaging 167 yards per game in those 4 matches. 

If Duke Johnson has a chance at the Heisman, the Miami Hurricanes must win their remaining 4 games while Duke Johnson continue to tear up the box score. He will win the trophy on November 15th when the Hurricanes play #2 Florida State down in South Florida. If Miami takes down Florida State behind a 200+ yard perfomance by Duke Johnson he should be considered as a candidate for the Heisman Trophy. 

2. Anu Solomon QB Arizona

2,400 Passing Yards 20 TDs 4 INT. Oregon is currently the first team out of the 4 team playoff but what about the only team that beat Oregon? Arizona controls their own destiny. They can win their remaining 5 games and meet Oregon in the Pac-12 championship game, assuming Oregon wins out as well. 

A 12-1 Arizona team with 2 wins against Oregon would be impossible to keep out of the 4 team playoff. Freshman QB Anu Solomon has been playing great football so far but will need to get better each week if they want their fairytale to contain a happy ending. 

1. Ameer Abdullah RB Nebraska

Ameer is making his way up the Heisman boards but is still not considered a favorite. He is leading the nation with 1,249 rushing yards and has 17 TDs. The one glaring game on his resume is a 24 carry 45 yard performance in their only loss against Michigan State. 

If both Michigan State and Nebraska win out they will face each other in the Big Ten championship game. Ameer could get his redemption and seal himself as a Heisman favorite with a great game and victory against the Spartans. A one loss Big Ten champion could aslo be in the playoff conversation if there are multiple 2 loss teams. 

This year's Heisman race is as wide open as the playoff picture. There are more than 10 one loss teams that have the opportunity to win the rest of their games and earn their way into the 4 team playoff. This year's Heisman could be very well be one of those players on a one loss team who will lead his team to the first ever 4 team college playoff.

5. Clint Trickett QB West Virginia

The Mountaineers do not control their own destiny and if they do not beat TCU this weekend you can take Trickett's name right off of this list. However, his QB play for the year cannot go unnoticed. 

5th in passing yards, 13th in total QBR, 10th in completion percentage, he has thrown for 300+ yards in 7/8 games. If Clint can lead his team to a victory against TCU and TCU goes on to beat Kansas State, West Virginia will be right in the hunt for the Big 12 championship and the Heisman discussion would heat up for Mr. Trickett.

4. Hau'oli Kikaha OLB Washington

The Huskies 5-3 record with a 1-3 record in the PAC 12 will not help his case. However, his 14.5 sacks in 8 games against top competition should earn some votes. He has 5.5 sacks in 2 games against Marcus Mariota and Jared Goff who hold the #1 and #8 passer ratings, respectively. 

The most sacks in a season since 2000 is held by Terrel Suggs who had 24 in 2002. He is on pace for 23.5 sacks this season. If he has 20+ sacks this season it would be a crime if he is not in the top 3 in Heisman voting. 

3. Duke Johnson RB Miami FL

Duke has 1,260 total yards to go along with 8 TDs. Miami has won their 3 out of their last 4 games thanks to Duke Johnson averaging 167 yards per game in those 4 matches. 

If Duke Johnson has a chance at the Heisman, the Miami Hurricanes must win their remaining 4 games while Duke Johnson continue to tear up the box score. He will win the trophy on November 15th when the Hurricanes play #2 Florida State down in South Florida. If Miami takes down Florida State behind a 200+ yard perfomance by Duke Johnson he should be considered as a candidate for the Heisman Trophy. 

2. Anu Solomon QB Arizona

2,400 Passing Yards 20 TDs 4 INT. Oregon is currently the first team out of the 4 team playoff but what about the only team that beat Oregon? Arizona controls their own destiny. They can win their remaining 5 games and meet Oregon in the Pac-12 championship game, assuming Oregon wins out as well. 

A 12-1 Arizona team with 2 wins against Oregon would be impossible to keep out of the 4 team playoff. Freshman QB Anu Solomon has been playing great football so far but will need to get better each week if they want their fairytale to contain a happy ending. 

1. Ameer Abdullah RB Nebraska

Ameer is making his way up the Heisman boards but is still not considered a favorite. He is leading the nation with 1,249 rushing yards and has 17 TDs. The one glaring game on his resume is a 24 carry 45 yard performance in their only loss against Michigan State. 

If both Michigan State and Nebraska win out they will face each other in the Big Ten championship game. Ameer could get his redemption and seal himself as a Heisman favorite with a great game and victory against the Spartans. A one loss Big Ten champion could aslo be in the playoff conversation if there are multiple 2 loss teams. 

This year's Heisman race is as wide open as the playoff picture. There are more than 10 one loss teams that have the opportunity to win the rest of their games and earn their way into the 4 team playoff. This year's Heisman could be very well be one of those players on a one loss team who will lead his team to the first ever 4 team college playoff.

5. Clint Trickett QB West Virginia

The Mountaineers do not control their own destiny and if they do not beat TCU this weekend you can take Trickett's name right off of this list. However, his QB play for the year cannot go unnoticed. 

5th in passing yards, 13th in total QBR, 10th in completion percentage, he has thrown for 300+ yards in 7/8 games. If Clint can lead his team to a victory against TCU and TCU goes on to beat Kansas State, West Virginia will be right in the hunt for the Big 12 championship and the Heisman discussion would heat up for Mr. Trickett.

4. Hau'oli Kikaha OLB Washington

The Huskies 5-3 record with a 1-3 record in the PAC 12 will not help his case. However, his 14.5 sacks in 8 games against top competition should earn some votes. He has 5.5 sacks in 2 games against Marcus Mariota and Jared Goff who hold the #1 and #8 passer ratings, respectively. 

The most sacks in a season since 2000 is held by Terrel Suggs who had 24 in 2002. He is on pace for 23.5 sacks this season. If he has 20+ sacks this season it would be a crime if he is not in the top 3 in Heisman voting. 

3. Duke Johnson RB Miami FL

Duke has 1,260 total yards to go along with 8 TDs. Miami has won their 3 out of their last 4 games thanks to Duke Johnson averaging 167 yards per game in those 4 matches. 

If Duke Johnson has a chance at the Heisman, the Miami Hurricanes must win their remaining 4 games while Duke Johnson continue to tear up the box score. He will win the trophy on November 15th when the Hurricanes play #2 Florida State down in South Florida. If Miami takes down Florida State behind a 200+ yard perfomance by Duke Johnson he should be considered as a candidate for the Heisman Trophy. 

2. Anu Solomon QB Arizona

2,400 Passing Yards 20 TDs 4 INT. Oregon is currently the first team out of the 4 team playoff but what about the only team that beat Oregon? Arizona controls their own destiny. They can win their remaining 5 games and meet Oregon in the Pac-12 championship game, assuming Oregon wins out as well. 

A 12-1 Arizona team with 2 wins against Oregon would be impossible to keep out of the 4 team playoff. Freshman QB Anu Solomon has been playing great football so far but will need to get better each week if they want their fairytale to contain a happy ending. 

1. Ameer Abdullah RB Nebraska

Ameer is making his way up the Heisman boards but is still not considered a favorite. He is leading the nation with 1,249 rushing yards and has 17 TDs. The one glaring game on his resume is a 24 carry 45 yard performance in their only loss against Michigan State. 

If both Michigan State and Nebraska win out they will face each other in the Big Ten championship game. Ameer could get his redemption and seal himself as a Heisman favorite with a great game and victory against the Spartans. A one loss Big Ten champion could aslo be in the playoff conversation if there are multiple 2 loss teams. 

The NFL season is closing in on being halfway over, so naturally, buzz is currently generating about how each respective NFL coach is faring this season. The AP NFL Coach of the Year Award is the most prestigious individual performance award an NFL head coach can receive. The award has been given out annually after the conclusion of the NFL regular season since 1967. Former Miami Dolphins head coach Don Shula holds the record for most Coach of the Year titles with four.

Currently, five candidates stick out as potential winners at the end of the season for the 2014 Coach of the Year Award.

The NFL season is closing in on being halfway over, so naturally, buzz is currently generating about how each respective NFL coach is faring this season. The AP NFL Coach of the Year Award is the most prestigious individual performance award an NFL head coach can receive. The award has been given out annually after the conclusion of the NFL regular season since 1967. Former Miami Dolphins head coach Don Shula holds the record for most Coach of the Year titles with four.

Currently, five candidates stick out as potential winners at the end of the season for the 2014 Coach of the Year Award.

No Todd Gurley, no problem. Georgia still wins. Questions about Jameis Winston still creep around the campus at Florida State. No problem, the Seminoles have won 22 straight games. Alabama wins, but there are still questions as Arkansas plays the Tide tough. Auburn loses to the Bulldogs and the state of Mississippi erupts in banter and cheer as the state now claims the top and third spot in the college rankings.

Yes, the south has risen again.

In any event, the Heisman Trophy figures to have a huge southern flavor or southern influence again this season, making it difficult for the west and Midwest to catch up. This isn’t a southern or east coast bias, it’s just the truth.

Here are the top seven candidates today.

7. SHANE CARDEN. ECU

Carden and ECU had just enough in the tank to get past upset-minded South Florida, though just-good-enough performances won't lift Carden higher on the Heisman list or continue ECU's path for a major bowl. The production has been there, however, and Carden and this offense should regain top-notch form against some of the American's weakest teams.

6. BRYCE PETTY, BAYLOR

His 510-yard, six-touchdown performance in leading Baylor through a 21-point deficit and past TCU should help us forget Petty's early season, which was stymied and slowed by a painful back injury.

Baylor is now the fourth ranked team in the nation and a serious contender for a playoff spot.

5. AMEER ABDULLAH, NEBRASKA

Despite his lackluster performance in the Cornhuskers' loss to Michigan State. That'll be an aberration: Abdullah will rebound to near the 2,000-yard mark when all is said and done, and if in conjunction with a 10-win regular season should keep him among the top five throughout the season.

4. EVERETTE GOLSON, NOTRE DAME

Golson threw for 300 yards and three scores and ran for 71 yards in the Fighting Irish's 50-43 shootout win over North Carolina.

The game this weekend in Tallahassee could be his showcase game that will kick him up a few notches in the eyes of the voters. Should Notre Dame run the table, Golson will appear in New York.

3. MELVIN GORDON, WISCONSIN

Gordon found the end zone four times against a soft Illinois defense. He finished the day with 175 yards on 27 carries. It was Gordon's fifth game of the season with at least 140 rushing yards.

He is quickly becoming a favorite of the NFL. Gurley figures to be the first back chosen, but Gordon is winning teams over with his grit.

2. MARCUS MARIOTA, OREGON

Oregon's QB was 17-for-27, passing for 210 yards and two touchdowns, but he was even deadlier on the ground. Mariota rushed for 75 yards and two touchdowns on seven carries. Maybe most importantly, he wasn't sacked.

The Arizona loss was a blemish on his resume, but he can still re-take the Heisman lead should the Bulldogs stumble or loss in the Egg Bowl.

1. DAK PRESCOTT, MISSISSIPPI STATE

Against No. 2 Auburn, Prescott rushed for 121 yards and two touchdowns. He also overcame two costly interceptions to finish 18-for-34 with another touchdown through the air. Altogether: 367 all-purpose yards and a big win at home.

Now that the Bulldogs are No. 1 in the most recent polls, as long as the team wins and Prescott shines, he is the front runner.

The year in college football is nearly half over, and we have seen the cream rise to the top in the FBS with several teams jumping out to a strong start.  There have been several head coaches that have developed their programs into national powerhouses and deserve to receive the recognition for their hard work this season. 

There are so many variables that go into a Head Coach receiving the “Coach of the Year” title.  Many folks believe that an undefeated record gives the best chance for a coach to receive the annual award; however many would argue about a massive turnaround of a program makes the Head Coach a true candidate for the prestigious title.  Either way, any collegiate Head Coach that develops their team into a successful program in the classroom, and on the field, deserves the recognition and praise. 

However, there can be only one “Coach of the Year” in the FBS, and here are the top five candidates to win the award:

No Todd Gurley, no problem. Georgia still wins. Questions about Jameis Winston still creep around the campus at Florida State. No problem, the Seminoles have won 22 straight games. Alabama wins, but there are still questions as Arkansas plays the Tide tough. Auburn loses to the Bulldogs and the state of Mississippi erupts in banter and cheer as the state now claims the top and third spot in the college rankings.

Yes, the south has risen again.

In any event, the Heisman Trophy figures to have a huge southern flavor or southern influence again this season, making it difficult for the west and Midwest to catch up. This isn’t a southern or east coast bias, it’s just the truth.

Here are the top seven candidates today.

7. SHANE CARDEN. ECU

Carden and ECU had just enough in the tank to get past upset-minded South Florida, though just-good-enough performances won't lift Carden higher on the Heisman list or continue ECU's path for a major bowl. The production has been there, however, and Carden and this offense should regain top-notch form against some of the American's weakest teams.

6. BRYCE PETTY, BAYLOR

His 510-yard, six-touchdown performance in leading Baylor through a 21-point deficit and past TCU should help us forget Petty's early season, which was stymied and slowed by a painful back injury.

Baylor is now the fourth ranked team in the nation and a serious contender for a playoff spot.

5. AMEER ABDULLAH, NEBRASKA

Despite his lackluster performance in the Cornhuskers' loss to Michigan State. That'll be an aberration: Abdullah will rebound to near the 2,000-yard mark when all is said and done, and if in conjunction with a 10-win regular season should keep him among the top five throughout the season.

4. EVERETTE GOLSON, NOTRE DAME

Golson threw for 300 yards and three scores and ran for 71 yards in the Fighting Irish's 50-43 shootout win over North Carolina.

The game this weekend in Tallahassee could be his showcase game that will kick him up a few notches in the eyes of the voters. Should Notre Dame run the table, Golson will appear in New York.

3. MELVIN GORDON, WISCONSIN

Gordon found the end zone four times against a soft Illinois defense. He finished the day with 175 yards on 27 carries. It was Gordon's fifth game of the season with at least 140 rushing yards.

He is quickly becoming a favorite of the NFL. Gurley figures to be the first back chosen, but Gordon is winning teams over with his grit.

2. MARCUS MARIOTA, OREGON

Oregon's QB was 17-for-27, passing for 210 yards and two touchdowns, but he was even deadlier on the ground. Mariota rushed for 75 yards and two touchdowns on seven carries. Maybe most importantly, he wasn't sacked.

The Arizona loss was a blemish on his resume, but he can still re-take the Heisman lead should the Bulldogs stumble or loss in the Egg Bowl.

1. DAK PRESCOTT, MISSISSIPPI STATE

Against No. 2 Auburn, Prescott rushed for 121 yards and two touchdowns. He also overcame two costly interceptions to finish 18-for-34 with another touchdown through the air. Altogether: 367 all-purpose yards and a big win at home.

Now that the Bulldogs are No. 1 in the most recent polls, as long as the team wins and Prescott shines, he is the front runner.

The year in college football is nearly half over, and we have seen the cream rise to the top in the FBS with several teams jumping out to a strong start.  There have been several head coaches that have developed their programs into national powerhouses and deserve to receive the recognition for their hard work this season. 

There are so many variables that go into a Head Coach receiving the “Coach of the Year” title.  Many folks believe that an undefeated record gives the best chance for a coach to receive the annual award; however many would argue about a massive turnaround of a program makes the Head Coach a true candidate for the prestigious title.  Either way, any collegiate Head Coach that develops their team into a successful program in the classroom, and on the field, deserves the recognition and praise. 

However, there can be only one “Coach of the Year” in the FBS, and here are the top five candidates to win the award:

No Todd Gurley, no problem. Georgia still wins. Questions about Jameis Winston still creep around the campus at Florida State. No problem, the Seminoles have won 22 straight games. Alabama wins, but there are still questions as Arkansas plays the Tide tough. Auburn loses to the Bulldogs and the state of Mississippi erupts in banter and cheer as the state now claims the top and third spot in the college rankings.

Yes, the south has risen again.

In any event, the Heisman Trophy figures to have a huge southern flavor or southern influence again this season, making it difficult for the west and Midwest to catch up. This isn’t a southern or east coast bias, it’s just the truth.

Here are the top seven candidates today.

7. SHANE CARDEN. ECU

Carden and ECU had just enough in the tank to get past upset-minded South Florida, though just-good-enough performances won't lift Carden higher on the Heisman list or continue ECU's path for a major bowl. The production has been there, however, and Carden and this offense should regain top-notch form against some of the American's weakest teams.

6. BRYCE PETTY, BAYLOR

His 510-yard, six-touchdown performance in leading Baylor through a 21-point deficit and past TCU should help us forget Petty's early season, which was stymied and slowed by a painful back injury.

Baylor is now the fourth ranked team in the nation and a serious contender for a playoff spot.

5. AMEER ABDULLAH, NEBRASKA

Despite his lackluster performance in the Cornhuskers' loss to Michigan State. That'll be an aberration: Abdullah will rebound to near the 2,000-yard mark when all is said and done, and if in conjunction with a 10-win regular season should keep him among the top five throughout the season.

4. EVERETTE GOLSON, NOTRE DAME

Golson threw for 300 yards and three scores and ran for 71 yards in the Fighting Irish's 50-43 shootout win over North Carolina.

The game this weekend in Tallahassee could be his showcase game that will kick him up a few notches in the eyes of the voters. Should Notre Dame run the table, Golson will appear in New York.

3. MELVIN GORDON, WISCONSIN

Gordon found the end zone four times against a soft Illinois defense. He finished the day with 175 yards on 27 carries. It was Gordon's fifth game of the season with at least 140 rushing yards.

He is quickly becoming a favorite of the NFL. Gurley figures to be the first back chosen, but Gordon is winning teams over with his grit.

2. MARCUS MARIOTA, OREGON

Oregon's QB was 17-for-27, passing for 210 yards and two touchdowns, but he was even deadlier on the ground. Mariota rushed for 75 yards and two touchdowns on seven carries. Maybe most importantly, he wasn't sacked.

The Arizona loss was a blemish on his resume, but he can still re-take the Heisman lead should the Bulldogs stumble or loss in the Egg Bowl.

1. DAK PRESCOTT, MISSISSIPPI STATE

Against No. 2 Auburn, Prescott rushed for 121 yards and two touchdowns. He also overcame two costly interceptions to finish 18-for-34 with another touchdown through the air. Altogether: 367 all-purpose yards and a big win at home.

Now that the Bulldogs are No. 1 in the most recent polls, as long as the team wins and Prescott shines, he is the front runner.

Not only did the weekend of college football shake up the rankings and put new spin on the college playoff watch, it also introduced new faces to the Heisman Trophy competition.

Ameer Abdullah, Marcus Mariota and Trevor Knight all took a step back in the search for college football’s best player.

There could be more to come as teams in the SEC, Pac 12 and other major conferences go head to head, hoping to knock each other out and inch closer to a conference title and possible national title implicatons.

Here are this week’s five Heisman Candidates.

Todd Gurley – He is still far and away better than any other running back in the country. The fact that Ameer Abdullah was so ineffective against Michigan State. Gurley is the best player in the SEC and now that the SEC seems as jumbled as any conference in the land, it makes sense to stick to one horse and see how long he can run.

Bo Wallace – He was the golden boy last weekend, leading the Rebels to an upset win over Alabama. Wallace has been the other quarterback in the state of Mississippi who took a back seat to Dak Prescott. Wallace is the best thing to come to Ole Miss since some kind named manning. This is a rising program and Hugh Freeze is making people take notice. Wallace is in the center of that rise.

Dak Prescott – He is the best quarterback in the SEC and a certain Heisman candidate. The way he crabbed through the Aggies defense effortlessly and proved he could win with his arm and athletic ability. He is not the best player in the conference, but defenses now plan for him, which is saying something with the talent emerging behind center. It would be great to see two quarterbacks from the Magnolia State in New York in December.

Bryce Petty – Now that Oklahoma and Trevor Knight have lost, look for the nation to take a closer look at Baylor and Petty. The Bears offense reminds me a lot like the Seminoles offense of the early and mid-1990s, where was one speed and the quarterback slammed his foot on the throttle. That led to a Heisman for Charley Ward. Maybe it could do the same thing for Petty.

Nick Marshall – The Auburn Tigers are second in the nation polls. Marshall, although he faced off-field issues before the season that led to a one-game suspension, is click on all cylinders. I said before the season I thought Auburn was going to be better than Alabama. So far I am correct and Marshall has a lot to do with that.

Not only did the weekend of college football shake up the rankings and put new spin on the college playoff watch, it also introduced new faces to the Heisman Trophy competition.

Ameer Abdullah, Marcus Mariota and Trevor Knight all took a step back in the search for college football’s best player.

There could be more to come as teams in the SEC, Pac 12 and other major conferences go head to head, hoping to knock each other out and inch closer to a conference title and possible national title implicatons.

Here are this week’s five Heisman Candidates.

Todd Gurley – He is still far and away better than any other running back in the country. The fact that Ameer Abdullah was so ineffective against Michigan State. Gurley is the best player in the SEC and now that the SEC seems as jumbled as any conference in the land, it makes sense to stick to one horse and see how long he can run.

Bo Wallace – He was the golden boy last weekend, leading the Rebels to an upset win over Alabama. Wallace has been the other quarterback in the state of Mississippi who took a back seat to Dak Prescott. Wallace is the best thing to come to Ole Miss since some kind named manning. This is a rising program and Hugh Freeze is making people take notice. Wallace is in the center of that rise.

Dak Prescott – He is the best quarterback in the SEC and a certain Heisman candidate. The way he crabbed through the Aggies defense effortlessly and proved he could win with his arm and athletic ability. He is not the best player in the conference, but defenses now plan for him, which is saying something with the talent emerging behind center. It would be great to see two quarterbacks from the Magnolia State in New York in December.

Bryce Petty – Now that Oklahoma and Trevor Knight have lost, look for the nation to take a closer look at Baylor and Petty. The Bears offense reminds me a lot like the Seminoles offense of the early and mid-1990s, where was one speed and the quarterback slammed his foot on the throttle. That led to a Heisman for Charley Ward. Maybe it could do the same thing for Petty.

Nick Marshall – The Auburn Tigers are second in the nation polls. Marshall, although he faced off-field issues before the season that led to a one-game suspension, is click on all cylinders. I said before the season I thought Auburn was going to be better than Alabama. So far I am correct and Marshall has a lot to do with that.

Leave it to the Oakland Raiders to create controversy even when it comes to firing their head coach.

The Raiders, who lost to the Miami Dolphins in London, 38-14, made the move Monday evening when the team phoned the then head coach about their decision to make a change.

Allen (according to USA Today) also joins an esteemed list of coaches who were canned in Oakland after four games into the season. Mike Shanahan got the boot after four games in 1989 and Lane Kiffin was shown the door after the same time in 2008.

Getting fired by the Raiders was bound to happen after an 8-26 record in three-plus seasons as an NFL head coach.

Getting fired over the phone is not a good way to be let go. As an employee, you hope to be able to look your boss in the eye before getting the boot and perhaps even answer for your actions. However, Allen shouldn’t feel too bad. He was working for the Raiders, after all. Compared to head coaches of yesteryear, Allen’s dismissal was downright classy, the USA Today story reported.

According to the Sporting News and David Steele, an Associated Press reporter tweeted Sunday evening that the Oakland Raiders had fired head coach Dennis Allen - then deleted the tweet, then later retracted it completely with an apology.

Niceties and all may be warranted for a premature story circulating about Allen, but after the 38-14 loss to Miami in London on Sunday, with a 0-4 record to begin the 2014 season, it locked everything in place and real except for the actual act to be carried out.

Allen has been on the job three-plus seasons (8-28 overall) after he was hired from the Denver Broncos where he served as defensive coordinator.

The report in the Sporting News goes on to say Allen told reporters after the game that he was not worried about losing his job and believed he would remain the coach, according to ESPN.com. But the San Francisco Chronicle cited organization sources that said it "would be a shocker" if McKenzie were able to talk owner Mark Davis out of firing Allen.

Tony Sparano, the offensive line coach and former head coach of the Dolphins, would replace Allen, the Chronicle reported.

If Sparano is the choice, is he a temporary solution or the man both general manager Reggie McKenzie and Davis want, or are there other names the team might look to after the season is over?

Here are five names to consider.

GREG ROMAN – OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR, SAN FRANCISCO

Roman is the current offensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers. He had previously been a coach under Jim Harbaugh's staff at Stanford from 2009 to 2010. Upon the conclusion of the 2012 season, he was the first offensive coordinator to complete consecutive seasons as the 49ers offensive coordinator since Greg Knapp in 2002 and 2003. Roman has previously been a coach with the Carolina Panthers (1995–2001), Houston Texans (2002–2005), Baltimore Ravens (2006–2007).

PETE CARMICHAEL – OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR, NEW ORLEANS

Carmichael is the current offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League (NFL). He was named offensive coordinator in 2009, replacing Doug Marrone who left to become the head coach of the Syracuse Orange. New Orleans led the league in scoring in 2008 and 2009. The Saints offense has finished No. 1 overall in four of Carmichael’s six years with the organization. He has helped make Drew Brees on of the best in the NFL.

DAVID SHAW – HEAD COACH, STANFORD UNIVERSITY

Shaw is the head coach of the Stanford Cardinal football team. Shaw was the team's offensive coordinator for the entire tenure of head coach Jim Harbaugh from 2007 to 2010. Previously, Shaw was a four-year letter winner playing as a wide receiver for the Cardinal from 1991 to 1994, where he was coached by Dennis Green and Bill Walsh. Prior to returning to Stanford as offensive coordinator, Shaw was Harbaugh's passing game coordinator at the University of San Diego and an assistant coach in the NFL for the Philadelphia Eagles, Oakland Raiders, and Baltimore Ravens.

JIM HARBAUGH – HEAD COACH SAN FRNCISCO 49ERS

If the 49ers part ways with Harbaugh, maybe he takes a trip up the coast.

Harbaugh was a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the University of Michigan, and was in the NFL for 14 seasons, from 1987 to 2000. Harbaugh has been a head coach since 2004, beginning at the University of San Diego for three seasons. He moved up the coast to Stanford University of the Pac-10 in 2007, and after four seasons, to the 49ers in 2011.

DAN QUINN – DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR, SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Quinn is the current defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks. Quinn originally joined Seattle  in 2009, after spending the previous six years coaching the defensive lines for the San Francisco 49ers (2003-04), Miami Dolphins (2005-06) and the New York Jets (2007-08). He began his NFL coaching career in San Francisco as their defensive quality control coach in 2001 before moving to the defensive line. He also served as the defensive coordinator for the Florida Gators during the 2011 and 2012 seasons.

Leave it to the Oakland Raiders to create controversy even when it comes to firing their head coach.

The Raiders, who lost to the Miami Dolphins in London, 38-14, made the move Monday evening when the team phoned the then head coach about their decision to make a change.

Allen (according to USA Today) also joins an esteemed list of coaches who were canned in Oakland after four games into the season. Mike Shanahan got the boot after four games in 1989 and Lane Kiffin was shown the door after the same time in 2008.

Getting fired by the Raiders was bound to happen after an 8-26 record in three-plus seasons as an NFL head coach.

Getting fired over the phone is not a good way to be let go. As an employee, you hope to be able to look your boss in the eye before getting the boot and perhaps even answer for your actions. However, Allen shouldn’t feel too bad. He was working for the Raiders, after all. Compared to head coaches of yesteryear, Allen’s dismissal was downright classy, the USA Today story reported.

According to the Sporting News and David Steele, an Associated Press reporter tweeted Sunday evening that the Oakland Raiders had fired head coach Dennis Allen - then deleted the tweet, then later retracted it completely with an apology.

Niceties and all may be warranted for a premature story circulating about Allen, but after the 38-14 loss to Miami in London on Sunday, with a 0-4 record to begin the 2014 season, it locked everything in place and real except for the actual act to be carried out.

Allen has been on the job three-plus seasons (8-28 overall) after he was hired from the Denver Broncos where he served as defensive coordinator.

The report in the Sporting News goes on to say Allen told reporters after the game that he was not worried about losing his job and believed he would remain the coach, according to ESPN.com. But the San Francisco Chronicle cited organization sources that said it "would be a shocker" if McKenzie were able to talk owner Mark Davis out of firing Allen.

Tony Sparano, the offensive line coach and former head coach of the Dolphins, would replace Allen, the Chronicle reported.

If Sparano is the choice, is he a temporary solution or the man both general manager Reggie McKenzie and Davis want, or are there other names the team might look to after the season is over?

Here are five names to consider.

GREG ROMAN – OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR, SAN FRANCISCO

Roman is the current offensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers. He had previously been a coach under Jim Harbaugh's staff at Stanford from 2009 to 2010. Upon the conclusion of the 2012 season, he was the first offensive coordinator to complete consecutive seasons as the 49ers offensive coordinator since Greg Knapp in 2002 and 2003. Roman has previously been a coach with the Carolina Panthers (1995–2001), Houston Texans (2002–2005), Baltimore Ravens (2006–2007).

PETE CARMICHAEL – OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR, NEW ORLEANS

Carmichael is the current offensive coordinator for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League (NFL). He was named offensive coordinator in 2009, replacing Doug Marrone who left to become the head coach of the Syracuse Orange. New Orleans led the league in scoring in 2008 and 2009. The Saints offense has finished No. 1 overall in four of Carmichael’s six years with the organization. He has helped make Drew Brees on of the best in the NFL.

DAVID SHAW – HEAD COACH, STANFORD UNIVERSITY

Shaw is the head coach of the Stanford Cardinal football team. Shaw was the team's offensive coordinator for the entire tenure of head coach Jim Harbaugh from 2007 to 2010. Previously, Shaw was a four-year letter winner playing as a wide receiver for the Cardinal from 1991 to 1994, where he was coached by Dennis Green and Bill Walsh. Prior to returning to Stanford as offensive coordinator, Shaw was Harbaugh's passing game coordinator at the University of San Diego and an assistant coach in the NFL for the Philadelphia Eagles, Oakland Raiders, and Baltimore Ravens.

JIM HARBAUGH – HEAD COACH SAN FRNCISCO 49ERS

If the 49ers part ways with Harbaugh, maybe he takes a trip up the coast.

Harbaugh was a quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the University of Michigan, and was in the NFL for 14 seasons, from 1987 to 2000. Harbaugh has been a head coach since 2004, beginning at the University of San Diego for three seasons. He moved up the coast to Stanford University of the Pac-10 in 2007, and after four seasons, to the 49ers in 2011.

DAN QUINN – DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR, SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

Quinn is the current defensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks. Quinn originally joined Seattle  in 2009, after spending the previous six years coaching the defensive lines for the San Francisco 49ers (2003-04), Miami Dolphins (2005-06) and the New York Jets (2007-08). He began his NFL coaching career in San Francisco as their defensive quality control coach in 2001 before moving to the defensive line. He also served as the defensive coordinator for the Florida Gators during the 2011 and 2012 seasons.

Four games into the season and there are some clear front runners for the 2014 League MVP.  It is likely that players like Peyton Manning, Russell Wilson, and Aaron Rodgers will creep into this discussion by year’s end but as of right now, there are others who would be more deserving ¼ of the way through the season.

DeMarco Murray, RB Dallas Cowboys

If this award was given right now, Murray would likely win it pretty handily.  Through four weeks, Murray has rushed for 534 yards and 5 touchdowns.  That is 156 more yards than the second leading rusher in the NFL.  Murray is one of the main reasons that Dallas has started 3-1 and is one of the biggest surprises in 2014.  If Murray can continue this pace, he will not only run away with the MVP award, but he could challenge Eric Dickerson’s single season rushing record.

Le’Veon Bell, RB Pittsburgh Steelers

Le’Veon Bell may be 156 rushing yards behind Murray but Bell also has 192 receiving yards.  Bell has only managed to find the end zone once this season but he has been dominant averaging 5.3 yards per carry.  Running as well as he is, the touchdowns will come as will the recognition.  At the pace he is on, his name will continue to be mentioned for offensive player of the year and MVP.

Antonio Brown, WR Pittsburgh Steelers

Bell is not the only player in Pittsburgh putting up impressive statistics.  Brown is one of 4 players in the NFL with 5 receiving touchdowns and is 3^rd in yards with 427 on 29 catches (which is 2^nd in the NFL).  Brown has gotten better every season in his short NFL career and is well on his way to improve on his 2013 season of 110 catches, 1,499 yards and 8 touchdowns.

Steve Smith, WR Baltimore Ravens

Smith is 35 years old and coming off of one of his worst statistical seasons.  Carolina let him leave assuming that Smith did not have another productive season in him, and they were wrong.  Smith has 25 catches for 429 yards and 3 touchdowns.  Smith likely won’t keep this production up, but most would have said that Smith being productive in 2014 wasn’t likely at all, not to mention being in any conversation even remotely adjacent to an MVP discussion.

J.J. Watt, DE Houston Texans

Watt is disruptive on defense and a big reason that Houston is 3-1.  He has 2 sacks and seemingly is in the backfield more than opposing running backs.  On top of that he returned an interception for a touchdown this week.  If all of his defensive success weren’t enough to warrant him for MVP discussion, he also caught a touchdown playing offense earlier this season.

Tony Romo, QB Dallas Cowboys

The MVP award has become the best Quarterback award recently, with a quarterback winning 6 of the last 7 MVPs.  There are others in the NFL with better numbers than his 936 passing yards and 7 touchdowns, but the way he has led Dallas this season has been fantastic.  Romo is criticized for not performing well in the clutch but he has played very well this season.  Romo is set up to prove his critics wrong this season… or prove them right yet again.

Andrew Luck, QB Indianapolis Colts

Statistically, no Quarterback is having a better season than Andrew Luck.  He has passed for 1,305 yards and 13 touchdowns and rushed for another touchdown.  The Colts are only 2-2, but that is not Luck’s fault, he kept Indianapolis in both the Denver and Philadelphia games and tore apart division opponents Jacksonville and Tennessee.  He is looking just like the pro that everyone expected him to be. He has a bright future and will be in many MVP discussions throughout his career.

Four games into the season and there are some clear front runners for the 2014 League MVP.  It is likely that players like Peyton Manning, Russell Wilson, and Aaron Rodgers will creep into this discussion by year’s end but as of right now, there are others who would be more deserving ¼ of the way through the season.

DeMarco Murray, RB Dallas Cowboys

If this award was given right now, Murray would likely win it pretty handily.  Through four weeks, Murray has rushed for 534 yards and 5 touchdowns.  That is 156 more yards than the second leading rusher in the NFL.  Murray is one of the main reasons that Dallas has started 3-1 and is one of the biggest surprises in 2014.  If Murray can continue this pace, he will not only run away with the MVP award, but he could challenge Eric Dickerson’s single season rushing record.

Le’Veon Bell, RB Pittsburgh Steelers

Le’Veon Bell may be 156 rushing yards behind Murray but Bell also has 192 receiving yards.  Bell has only managed to find the end zone once this season but he has been dominant averaging 5.3 yards per carry.  Running as well as he is, the touchdowns will come as will the recognition.  At the pace he is on, his name will continue to be mentioned for offensive player of the year and MVP.

Antonio Brown, WR Pittsburgh Steelers

Bell is not the only player in Pittsburgh putting up impressive statistics.  Brown is one of 4 players in the NFL with 5 receiving touchdowns and is 3^rd in yards with 427 on 29 catches (which is 2^nd in the NFL).  Brown has gotten better every season in his short NFL career and is well on his way to improve on his 2013 season of 110 catches, 1,499 yards and 8 touchdowns.

Steve Smith, WR Baltimore Ravens

Smith is 35 years old and coming off of one of his worst statistical seasons.  Carolina let him leave assuming that Smith did not have another productive season in him, and they were wrong.  Smith has 25 catches for 429 yards and 3 touchdowns.  Smith likely won’t keep this production up, but most would have said that Smith being productive in 2014 wasn’t likely at all, not to mention being in any conversation even remotely adjacent to an MVP discussion.

J.J. Watt, DE Houston Texans

Watt is disruptive on defense and a big reason that Houston is 3-1.  He has 2 sacks and seemingly is in the backfield more than opposing running backs.  On top of that he returned an interception for a touchdown this week.  If all of his defensive success weren’t enough to warrant him for MVP discussion, he also caught a touchdown playing offense earlier this season.

Tony Romo, QB Dallas Cowboys

The MVP award has become the best Quarterback award recently, with a quarterback winning 6 of the last 7 MVPs.  There are others in the NFL with better numbers than his 936 passing yards and 7 touchdowns, but the way he has led Dallas this season has been fantastic.  Romo is criticized for not performing well in the clutch but he has played very well this season.  Romo is set up to prove his critics wrong this season… or prove them right yet again.

Andrew Luck, QB Indianapolis Colts

Statistically, no Quarterback is having a better season than Andrew Luck.  He has passed for 1,305 yards and 13 touchdowns and rushed for another touchdown.  The Colts are only 2-2, but that is not Luck’s fault, he kept Indianapolis in both the Denver and Philadelphia games and tore apart division opponents Jacksonville and Tennessee.  He is looking just like the pro that everyone expected him to be. He has a bright future and will be in many MVP discussions throughout his career.

Four games into the season and there are some clear front runners for the 2014 League MVP.  It is likely that players like Peyton Manning, Russell Wilson, and Aaron Rodgers will creep into this discussion by year’s end but as of right now, there are others who would be more deserving ¼ of the way through the season.

DeMarco Murray, RB Dallas Cowboys

If this award was given right now, Murray would likely win it pretty handily.  Through four weeks, Murray has rushed for 534 yards and 5 touchdowns.  That is 156 more yards than the second leading rusher in the NFL.  Murray is one of the main reasons that Dallas has started 3-1 and is one of the biggest surprises in 2014.  If Murray can continue this pace, he will not only run away with the MVP award, but he could challenge Eric Dickerson’s single season rushing record.

Le’Veon Bell, RB Pittsburgh Steelers

Le’Veon Bell may be 156 rushing yards behind Murray but Bell also has 192 receiving yards.  Bell has only managed to find the end zone once this season but he has been dominant averaging 5.3 yards per carry.  Running as well as he is, the touchdowns will come as will the recognition.  At the pace he is on, his name will continue to be mentioned for offensive player of the year and MVP.

Antonio Brown, WR Pittsburgh Steelers

Bell is not the only player in Pittsburgh putting up impressive statistics.  Brown is one of 4 players in the NFL with 5 receiving touchdowns and is 3^rd in yards with 427 on 29 catches (which is 2^nd in the NFL).  Brown has gotten better every season in his short NFL career and is well on his way to improve on his 2013 season of 110 catches, 1,499 yards and 8 touchdowns.

Steve Smith, WR Baltimore Ravens

Smith is 35 years old and coming off of one of his worst statistical seasons.  Carolina let him leave assuming that Smith did not have another productive season in him, and they were wrong.  Smith has 25 catches for 429 yards and 3 touchdowns.  Smith likely won’t keep this production up, but most would have said that Smith being productive in 2014 wasn’t likely at all, not to mention being in any conversation even remotely adjacent to an MVP discussion.

J.J. Watt, DE Houston Texans

Watt is disruptive on defense and a big reason that Houston is 3-1.  He has 2 sacks and seemingly is in the backfield more than opposing running backs.  On top of that he returned an interception for a touchdown this week.  If all of his defensive success weren’t enough to warrant him for MVP discussion, he also caught a touchdown playing offense earlier this season.

Tony Romo, QB Dallas Cowboys

The MVP award has become the best Quarterback award recently, with a quarterback winning 6 of the last 7 MVPs.  There are others in the NFL with better numbers than his 936 passing yards and 7 touchdowns, but the way he has led Dallas this season has been fantastic.  Romo is criticized for not performing well in the clutch but he has played very well this season.  Romo is set up to prove his critics wrong this season… or prove them right yet again.

Andrew Luck, QB Indianapolis Colts

Statistically, no Quarterback is having a better season than Andrew Luck.  He has passed for 1,305 yards and 13 touchdowns and rushed for another touchdown.  The Colts are only 2-2, but that is not Luck’s fault, he kept Indianapolis in both the Denver and Philadelphia games and tore apart division opponents Jacksonville and Tennessee.  He is looking just like the pro that everyone expected him to be. He has a bright future and will be in many MVP discussions throughout his career.

Four games into the season and there are some clear front runners for the 2014 League MVP.  It is likely that players like Peyton Manning, Russell Wilson, and Aaron Rodgers will creep into this discussion by year’s end but as of right now, there are others who would be more deserving ¼ of the way through the season.

DeMarco Murray, RB Dallas Cowboys

If this award was given right now, Murray would likely win it pretty handily.  Through four weeks, Murray has rushed for 534 yards and 5 touchdowns.  That is 156 more yards than the second leading rusher in the NFL.  Murray is one of the main reasons that Dallas has started 3-1 and is one of the biggest surprises in 2014.  If Murray can continue this pace, he will not only run away with the MVP award, but he could challenge Eric Dickerson’s single season rushing record.

Le’Veon Bell, RB Pittsburgh Steelers

Le’Veon Bell may be 156 rushing yards behind Murray but Bell also has 192 receiving yards.  Bell has only managed to find the end zone once this season but he has been dominant averaging 5.3 yards per carry.  Running as well as he is, the touchdowns will come as will the recognition.  At the pace he is on, his name will continue to be mentioned for offensive player of the year and MVP.

Antonio Brown, WR Pittsburgh Steelers

Bell is not the only player in Pittsburgh putting up impressive statistics.  Brown is one of 4 players in the NFL with 5 receiving touchdowns and is 3^rd in yards with 427 on 29 catches (which is 2^nd in the NFL).  Brown has gotten better every season in his short NFL career and is well on his way to improve on his 2013 season of 110 catches, 1,499 yards and 8 touchdowns.

Steve Smith, WR Baltimore Ravens

Smith is 35 years old and coming off of one of his worst statistical seasons.  Carolina let him leave assuming that Smith did not have another productive season in him, and they were wrong.  Smith has 25 catches for 429 yards and 3 touchdowns.  Smith likely won’t keep this production up, but most would have said that Smith being productive in 2014 wasn’t likely at all, not to mention being in any conversation even remotely adjacent to an MVP discussion.

J.J. Watt, DE Houston Texans

Watt is disruptive on defense and a big reason that Houston is 3-1.  He has 2 sacks and seemingly is in the backfield more than opposing running backs.  On top of that he returned an interception for a touchdown this week.  If all of his defensive success weren’t enough to warrant him for MVP discussion, he also caught a touchdown playing offense earlier this season.

Tony Romo, QB Dallas Cowboys

The MVP award has become the best Quarterback award recently, with a quarterback winning 6 of the last 7 MVPs.  There are others in the NFL with better numbers than his 936 passing yards and 7 touchdowns, but the way he has led Dallas this season has been fantastic.  Romo is criticized for not performing well in the clutch but he has played very well this season.  Romo is set up to prove his critics wrong this season… or prove them right yet again.

Andrew Luck, QB Indianapolis Colts

Statistically, no Quarterback is having a better season than Andrew Luck.  He has passed for 1,305 yards and 13 touchdowns and rushed for another touchdown.  The Colts are only 2-2, but that is not Luck’s fault, he kept Indianapolis in both the Denver and Philadelphia games and tore apart division opponents Jacksonville and Tennessee.  He is looking just like the pro that everyone expected him to be. He has a bright future and will be in many MVP discussions throughout his career.

Each year when the college football season starts one of the hot topics and big questions that is always brought up is who will win the Heisman Trophy. This year is no different and the list of candidates is very intriguing as we enter the 2014 season.

Last year, Jameis Winston, from Florida State, won the Heisman Trophy award and became the second consecutive freshman to take home the honor. Winston followed Johnny Manziel as the only two freshmen to win the award.

The question is will another freshman come out of nowhere to win the award for a third straight year, or will someone else already on the radar live up to the hype and take home the prestigious award in 2014.

I have decided to take a look at the top candidates in the power five conferences of the SEC, Big Ten, PAC 12, Big 12 and ACC. The award almost guaranteed will come out of one of these five conferences based on history.

First, from the SEC the top candidate to win the Heisman Trophy is Nick Marshall. Marshall is the quarterback for the Auburn Tigers. The one big reason I believe Marshall will be the leading candidate to take home the award from the SEC is because of the offensive chances and numbers he will put up in 2014.

Marshall plays in the spread attack of the Auburn offense, which means he will have more opportunities to rack up numbers in both the run and pass game. Auburn’s Head Coach Gus Malzahn runs an up tempo offense that allows his quarterback lots of chances to score and gain huge yardage in a single play. This will suit Marshall perfectly on his quest for a Heisman Trophy.

Malzahn led the 2010 Auburn offense that saw their quarterback Cam Newton win the Heisman, so it could very well happen again in 2014. This will be the first time in Gus’ college coaching career that he has had a second year with his starting quarterback. This could be scary for opposing defenses and a great opportunity for Marshall to take home the 2014 Heisman Trophy.

Next, from the Big Ten our top candidate is Braxton Miller. Miller is the starting quarterback for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Miller, much like Marshall, will have tons of opportunities to accumulate huge yards, touchdowns and not to mention the media attention that Ohio State generates.

Ohio State Head Coach Urban Meyer was the head coach for the Florida Gators in 2007 when Tim Tebow took home the Heisman Trophy award. Like Tebow in 2007, Miller will play in a spread offense that offers him the chance to gain huge yardage and account for a large amount of touchdowns, both passing and throwing.

Miller’s biggest challenge in winning the Heisman will be staying healthy all season. He has had his troubles with that in the past, but must play all 12 regular season games to have any shot at the award in 2014. Miller is our leading candidate from the Big Ten entering the 2014 season.

With the news that Miller may miss the 2014 season this obviously changes the landscape of the entire Big Ten. It is not clear whether or not he will for sure miss the 2014 season, but by all accounts he is likely to miss a significant amount of time. If the injury proves not to be as serious as some think he will be the top candidate from the Big Ten to win the Heisman Trophy and will make the Buckeyes the favorite to win the 2014 Big Ten championship.

Our next Heisman candidate comes from the ACC and his name will sound familiar. Jameis Winston, quarterback for the Florida State Seminoles, is the defending Heisman Trophy winner and our favorite to win the award from the ACC in 2014.

Winston put up remarkable numbers last year in his red-shirt freshman season as he led Florida State to the national title and won the 2013 Heisman Trophy award. It will be hard to top what happen last year for Winston, but now that he has experience on his side the award could be his to keep.

The only person to win back to back Heisman Trophy awards is Archie Griffin from Ohio State in 1974 and 1975. Winston will look to join that elite company, but his biggest roadblock may be off the field issues.

Winston has been well documented on his off field issues and the question of whether Heisman voters would vote for him again is very debatable. I doubt that they would put him in that elite class of a back to back Heisman Trophy winner, but if he puts up the numbers he did last year it will be hard not to vote for him.

I feel he will not repeat in 2014 in winning the Heisman Trophy, but he is certainly the leading candidate from the ACC. He will now be the hunted and not an unknown name as he was entering the 2013 season. It will be tough to repeat for Winston, but he has the tools and ability to do so.

The next candidate is from the Big 12 and it is an unknown name to most. Bryce Petty is the quarterback for the Baylor Bears and he is our leading candidate to win the Heisman in the Big 12.

Petty, much like Marshall and Miller we talked about earlier will have a ton of opportunities to accumulate yards and touchdowns because of the offense he plays in with Baylor. Baylor runs an up tempo offense where the ball is thrown 30, 40 and sometimes further down the field on a single play. This allows Petty to gain tons of yards in a short amount of time, which allows for more plays throughout the course of a 60 minute game.

Petty has a great receiving core to help his cause and a great Head Coach in Art Briles to lead the way. Petty can thank Robert Griffin for putting Baylor on the map and allowing him to even be in the Heisman conversation. Griffin won the 2011 Heisman Trophy and put Baylor in a bright spotlight that they have never seen before.

Petty will have a shot to do the same and lead Baylor to the first ever final four playoffs all in the same year. It will be tough for Petty to win the Heisman, but if he puts up video game like numbers that he and this offense is capable of then anything is possible. Petty is our top candidate from the Big 12 to win the 2014 Heisman Trophy award.

Last, but not least our final Heisman favorite from a power five conference is Marcus Mariota. Mariota is the starting quarterback for the Oregon Ducks out of the PAC 12. Mariota has been well documented as one of the best quarterbacks in all of college football the past several seasons.

Mariota plays in an offense that is wide open and puts up yards and points like no other team in all of college football. The Ducks’ offense revolves around Mariota and he is the engine that keeps it going.

Mariota is a humble guy with great leadership, which helps leads this Oregon team on a week to week basis. He has tons of weapons around him on offense and his Head Coach Mark Helfrich knows he can trust Mariota to basically run the game on his own.

Mariota has seen his national title hopes and Heisman Trophy hopes both go out the window against the Stanford Cardinal. He has to overcome that hurdle if he wishes to win the Heisman Trophy and a national title.

One other issue Mariota must overcome is staying healthy. He has had injury problems the past couple seasons and in order to win the Heisman he must stay healthy all 12 games in the regular season. The issue of staying healthy is crucial to any player to win the Heisman, but for Mariota it is even more crucial because of his history of getting hurt late in the season.

So, Mariota is our leading candidate from the PAC 12 to win the 2014 Heisman Trophy award. I believe Mariota will enter the 2014 season as the favorite to win the award because of the talent around him and the experience he has gained the past couple seasons. Mariota has this award in his grasp, but only if he and his Ducks live up to the hype.

These are our top five Heisman Trophy candidates entering the 2014 season. Once again they are Nick Marshall from Auburn, Braxton Miller from Ohio State, Jameis Winston from Florida State, Bryce Petty from Baylor and Marcus Mariota from Oregon.

I wouldn’t be shocked the least bit if our 2014 Heisman Trophy winner is on the list of five names we just discussed. It is a challenge to win this prestigious award, but these five guys have the coaches, team and talent to get the job done and take home that award. The quest for the 2014 Heisman Trophy starts from week one and will be a season long experience and journey like none other in all of sports.