Heisman Watch 2016: Week 8 players to watch
By John Buhler
Jake Browning, Washington Huskies quarterback
He’s coming off his team’s bye week, but Washington Huskies Jake Browning is probably the Pac-12’s best chance at getting a Heisman Trophy winner this year. Browning’s Huskies are 6-0, and he’s been a sensational sophomore signal caller for Chris Peterson.
One could argue that Browning is the most likely Heisman contender that isn’t Louisville’s Jackson. Two weeks ago, Browning massacred the Oregon Ducks. Browning completed 78.6% of his passes versus Oregon for 304 yards, and six touchdowns. He also scampered into the end zone twice on the ground.
Browning had no trouble eviscerating the Ducks, so can you imagine what he could do against a lowly Oregon State Beavers team? Oregon State is rebuilding under head coach Gary Andersen, and that’s bad news for the Beavers when they go up against Browning and the rest of the Pac-12 juggernaut Huskies.
On the year, Browning has completed 72.2 percent of his passes for 1,418 yards, 23 touchdowns and two interceptions. He also has three rushing touchdowns. As a pass-first quarterback, Browning is the best pro-style passer that will be up for the Heisman in 2016. If Washington keeps winning, don’t be surprised if he takes the Heisman.