1. Saquon Barkley, RB, Penn State
While Love could take over the No. 1 spot, the Heisman Trophy is still Saquon Barkley’s to lose. The Penn State Nittany Lions running back has been one of the most incredible players in the country, making his impact felt in each game he’s played — even if it’s not always as a ball-carrier. That was on display in Week 5 when he had 56 yards rushing and 51 yards receiving, but also took the opening kickoff 98 yards to the house.
However, it looked like Barkley might be held in-check this past week against the Northwestern Wildcats. Though Penn State was taking care of business on the road, Barkley wasn’t all that effective in moving the ball. For much of the game in fact, he had been held under 10 yards rushing. But of course, he changed all that with one play, which he’s tremendously capable of doing every time out, with a 53-yard touchdown run to break the game wide open.
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Again, this is Barkley’s honor to lose this season. However, he’s not bulletproof at the top of the race. There is still a long season ahead and many factors that could play in. The running back will be off in Week 7 before coming back to face Michigan at home. If he keeps it up with performances like the one against Northwestern, there’s at least a chance he could be caught. But watching the dynamic youngster play, I wouldn’t hold my breath.