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College Football 2016: 25 bold predictions

By Nathaniel Reeves

Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) drops back to pass during the first quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) drops back to pass during the first quarter against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2016 CFP National Championship at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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GLENDALE, AZ – JANUARY 11: Calvin Ridley
GLENDALE, AZ – JANUARY 11: Calvin Ridley /

7. Calvin Ridley is a Heisman finalist 

Having a surprise Heisman winner in 2016 seems like a tall order, as favorites Leonard Fournette, Deshaun Watson and Christian McCaffrey are safe enough bets. If anyone in the nation can crack that top three it’s Ridley, as the sophomore receiver is poised for an Amari Cooper type season and high finish in the Heisman voting.

A four-star prospect out of Florida, Ridley burst onto the scene in 2015 with a terrific freshman season. Ridley racked up 89 catches for 1,045 yards and seven touchdowns to lead an explosive Crimson Tide passing offense despite not being featured much in the first four .

If fans around the nation didn’t see Ridley’s regular season, they were certainly aware of his abilities following the semifinal contest against Michigan State. Ridley made a few incredible catches in the game, piling up 138 yards and two touchdowns.

With Cyrus Jones and Kenyan Drake gone, Ridley may also play a factor on special teams, which would only help his Heisman chances. Given Ridley’s top-end speed, he has the potential to be one of the most explosive kick returners in the nation.

Bringing in a new quarterback could be Ridley’s biggest hurdle, but expect Lane Kiffin to feature him even more prominently in the Crimson Tide offense as a sophomore.

Next: 6. MSU beats Michigan, wins Big Ten East

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