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5 reasons Royce Freeman can win the 2016 Heisman Trophy

By Connor Muldowney

Nov 27, 2015; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) runs the ball against the Oregon State Beavers at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2015; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) runs the ball against the Oregon State Beavers at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 17, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) participates in pre game warmups against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Oregon Ducks running back Royce Freeman (21) participates in pre game warmups against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jennifer Buchanan-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Two years of experience under his belt

As a freshman, Royce Freeman showed promise for the coming years. No one expected him to break out in the fashion that he did, but he racked up 1,365 yards and 18 touchdowns. He was already being dubbed a top running back in the Pac-12 and helped lead the Ducks to the national title game.

How could Freeman possibly follow up that strong of a freshman season? By putting up even better numbers as a sophomore, of course.

During his second season with the Ducks, his workload increased by 31 carries and he rushed for 1,836 yards and 17 touchdowns. His yards per carry mark went from a solid 5.4 as a freshman to an incredible 6.5 as a sophomore. He also caught 10 more passes for 190 more yards and an added touchdown as a sophomore.

If Freeman can continue this climb, he’s due for a 2,000-plus yard season as a junior as well as about 20 touchdowns.

Two years under his belt can only do him good as a junior, especially seeing as his workload is likely to increase a little more. Don’t be shocked to see him up those numbers even more with the experience to his name.

Next: 4. One of nation's strongest RBs

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