1. Matt Barkley QB USC
USC quarterback Matt Barkley tossed six touchdowns to lead the Trojans over Syracuse 42-29 at Metlife Stadium in New Jersey. As expected, Barkley continues to utilize playmaking wideouts Marquis Lee and Robert Woods.
A tough road game at Stanford this week should present a challenge to the Trojans. Expect Barkley to rise to the challenge and have another Heisman worthy performance.
2. DeAnthony Thomas RB Oregon
Oregon speedster DeAnthony Thomas rushed for 102 yards on only seven carries, including 39-yard and 51-yard first half touchdown runs against Fresno State in a 42- 25 Ducks victory. Thomas continues to make the most of his limited touches. Teammate Kenjon Barner rushed 34 times for 201 yards and three touchdowns as well.
Thomas has home run capability every time he touches the ball and that fact alone should keep him in the running for the Heisman.
3. Marquis Lee WR USC
Explosive USC wide receiver Marquis Lee found the end zone three more times against Syracuse and shows no signs of a slide in production. For the season, Lee has compiled 21 receptions for 263 yards and four touchdowns and a 100-yard kickoff return to the house.
The former Gardena Serra standout’s versatility and game breaking prowess should improve his Heisman candidacy as the season moves along.
4. Johnathan Franklin RB UCLA
UCLA Bruins running back Johnathan Franklin had another huge game, rushing for 217 yards with three receptions for 59 yards and a touchdown in the Bruins 36-30 victory over Nebraska. In two games, Franklin has 431 rushing yards and four total touchdowns.
Franklin and red shirt freshman quarterback Brett Hundley provide the Bruins a lethal combo in the backfield and should continue to put up big numbers.
5. Denard Robinson QB Michigan
After a disastrous opener against Alabama, Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson went off against Air Force in a 31-25 victory. Shoelace rushed 20 times for 218 yards, including electric 79-yard and 58-yard touchdown runs. Robinson added 208 yards and two touchdowns through the air for the Wolverines.
If D-Rob continues to perform like this and the Wolverines climb in the polls, a trip to New York will be in order.
