Tuesday Tailgate: A more diverse Heisman candidate pool
For the most part over the years, it's been either a quarterback or a running back taking home the Heisman Trophy. There are, however, a few exceptions. Those few have mainly been receivers (think Johnny Rodgers or Tim Brown), but Charles Woodson's award in 1997 opened the door for primarily defensive guys as well. Here are the top five Week 1 performances by players from non-traditional Heisman positions that will be worth watching as the season progresses:
Christian Kirk, WR, Texas A&M: He's a freshman, but that barrier has now been broken there as well. The numbers alone are impressive enough — six catches for 106 yards and a score, 224 all-purpose yards including a 79-yard punt return TD. But the bottom line is, this kid can fly.
Robert Nkemdiche, DT, Ole Miss: Sure, it was a gimmick play against an overmatched opponent, but the honors candidate on the defensive line showed his potential as a two-way threat with his 31-yard scoring catch for the Rebels. He also blocked a Tennessee-Martin field goal attempt. He'll have plenty of chances to make an impact against SEC competition down the road.
Mitch Mathews, WR, Brigham Young: Tanner Mangum threw it, but Mathews' tremendous grab of the last-second heave to beat Nebraska was Saturday's highlight play. The senior figures to have a lot more balls thrown his way as the Cougars move forward with Mangum at the controls.
Karl Joseph, S, West Virginia: The Mountaineers' wipeout of Georgia Southern might look even better if the Eagles go on to contend for the Sun Belt crown as expected. Joseph led the way with a team-high eight tackles in addition to three interceptions. If he can add to that pick total against the high-octane offenses of the Big 12, the buzz could grow louder.
Tiquan Lang, S, Marshall: He's the longest longshot on this list, but he certainly made the most of his opportunity against a power-five conference opponent in the Sunday spotlight. He recorded 17 tackles and scored twice via interception return in the Thundering Herd's win against Purdue.
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