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Heisman Trophy 2016: Power ranking the candidates

By Nathaniel Reeves

Nov 26, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against the Kentucky Wildcats during the second half at Papa John
Nov 26, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against the Kentucky Wildcats during the second half at Papa John /
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Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) runs as Ohio State Buckeyes defenders Terry McLaurin (83) and Eric Glover-Williams (19) pursue during the second quarter at Ohio Stadium. Michigan Wolverines lead at half 10-7. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Michigan Wolverines linebacker Jabrill Peppers (5) runs as Ohio State Buckeyes defenders Terry McLaurin (83) and Eric Glover-Williams (19) pursue during the second quarter at Ohio Stadium. Michigan Wolverines lead at half 10-7. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Jabrill Peppers, LB, Michigan

Michigan’s do-it-all playmaker is one of the most unique individuals we’ve seen in college football in recent memory, earning him Heisman finalist accolades. While Peppers is a longshot to join former Wolverine Charles Woodson as the only defensive player to win a Heisman, he deserves a runner-up nod for an outstanding 2016 season.

Peppers came to Michigan in 2014 as one of the top recruits in the nation, but only appeared in three games as a freshman. Jim Harbaugh’s arrival helped Peppers reach another level in 2015, as he recorded 45 tackles and 10 pass breakups while contributing on offense and special teams.

With some whispers of Heisman hype entering the season, the Wolverines used Peppers in even more roles in 2016. Peppers lined up at safety, cornerback, linebacker, nickel corner, wildcat quarterback, halfback, punt returner and kick returner this season, making significant contributions in all three phases of the game for a Michigan team that just missed out on a playoff spot.

The junior established himself as the most gifted athlete in the nation with 66 tackles, including 13 for loss, three sacks and an interception against Ohio State. With Peppers leading the way, Michigan allowed just 12.5 points per game to rank second in the nation in scoring defense.

Peppers added 27 carries for 167 yards and three touchdowns, and was a major home run threat on both punt and kick returns. It’s hard to measure Peppers’ impact compared to a Jackson or Watson, but it’s clear he’s one of the best all-around players in the nation.

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