5 reasons Samaje Perine can win 2016 Heisman Trophy

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Nov 21, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) hands off to running back Samaje Perine (32) during the game against the TCU Horned Frogs at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Baker Mayfield

There may not be a more dynamic quarterback/running back combination in the Power 5 than what the Sooners have in quarterback Baker Mayfield and Perine as their star tailback. Mayfield came on the scene in 2015 for the Sooners and finished fourth in the Heisman voting in his first year as the Oklahoma starter.

Entering 2016, Mayfield is arguably the best collegiate passer in the Power 5 behind only Clemson’s Deshaun Watson who was an All-American last season leading the Tigers to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.

While one could argue that having two Heisman Trophy contenders on the same team could conceivably split votes in early December, Mayfield is the perfect player to elevate Perine’s Heisman campaign and vice versa.

Having a quarterback that can routinely move the chains aerially opens up ample space for Perine to run through. By having a reliable rusher in Perine, defenses will have to play with integrity and not blitz Mayfield every snap.

If they work together well in unison in 2016, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that both Mayfield and Perine could represent Oklahoma at the 2016 Heisman Trophy Ceremony in New York City in early December 2016.

Next: 2. Reigning Big 12 Champions.

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