2011 Heisman Contenders Top Contenders

The start of the 2011 college football season is here and the numerous questions can be poised. One of the more intriguing ones is who will follow in the footsteps of Cam Newton and win the Heisman trophy. Here are several candidates who have a legitimate chance to win the prestigious award.

Landry Jones (Quarterback - Oklahoma)

Not only do the Sooners enter the 2011 season ranked # 1 in the AP polls, they bring with them a contender for the Heisman trophy. Last year he completed 65.6% of his passes for 4,718 yards with 38 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Jones this award is Jones to lose right now. If he can lead the Sooners to a # 1 ranking by the end of the regular season, he will bring it home.

LaMichael James (Running Back - Oregon)

In 2010, James led the nation in rushing with 1,622 yards, averaging 135.2 yards per game, along with 21 touchdowns. Despite these efforts, he only finished third in the Heisman voting. He is going to look to take home the hardware this year. If the Ducks can remain near the top of the polls again this year, then he will have a shot to earn the Heisman.

Denard Robinson (Quarterback - Michigan)

In 2010, at mid-October, Robinson had the award locked up with his performance on the field, then injuries and the Big Ten schedule happened. He ended the season with 2,316 yards through the air and 1,643 yards on the ground. Despite that and the 30 touchdowns he scored, he missed out on the Heisman. The biggest concern with Robinson is the arrival of a new coach in Michigan. Many expect Hoke to pull back on the offensive unit and lead a more pro-style attack, which does not suit Robinson.

Marcus Lattimore (Running Back - South Carolina)

One of the main reasons why the Gamecocks finished with a 9-5 record is Lattimore. His 1,164 yards on the ground and 17 rushing touchdowns helped power their offense in a dominant SEC conference. There are high hopes for the Gamecocks in 2011 thanks to the performance of Lattimore. The one drawback to his chances at holding the Heisman trophy would be poor performances in big time SEC matchups.

Kellen Moore (Quarterback - Boise State)

In 2010, Moore finished fourth in the Heisman voting, something he would like to change in 2011. He completed 71.3% of his passes for 3,845 yards with 35 touchdowns and only 6 interceptions. Some may think Moore is going to struggle without his star receivers, but remember this is Boise State.

Brandon Weeden (Quarterback - Oklahoma State)

The dark horse candidate in 2011 has to be Weeden. In 2010, he finished second in the nation with 4,277 passing yards with 34 touchdowns and 13 interceptions. On top of it, he completed 66.9% of the passes his threw. He is poised in the pocket and should continue to have success in his Junior year. The biggest drawback for Weeden is that he is missing Justin Blackmon.