Heisman Trophy Power Rankings: Hendon Hooker’s clunker leaves race wide-open
By Scott Rogust
Yes, Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker dropped out of the No. 1 spot. Given his performance against Georgia, there was no other choice.
Tennessee had one of the most high-powered offenses in the country, thanks in part to Hooker’s play-making abilities. From using his legs to unleashing deep passes downfield. The problem Hooker and Tennessee had was they had to face Georgia’s ruthless defense. Just how ruthless were they, you ask? Well, Tennessee was held out of the end zone for over 55 minutes. The Volunteers’ lone touchdown took place late in the fourth quarter, bringing their deficit to 27-13.
Hooker completed 23-of-33 pass attempts for 195 yards, while throwing one interception. This is the first game this season where Hooker did not score a touchdown.
There is still time for Hooker to stake his claim as the favorite to win the Heisman, but he couldn’t do anything against the Bulldogs.
Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud reclaims the top spot on the power rankings, but he didn’t exactly put up the numbers like we have been used to him posting in a game.
The Buckeyes dealt with brutal wind conditions at Ryan Field, as they took on the one-win Northwestern Wildcats. This was the very team that beat Nebraska in the Week 0 contest in Ireland, but has lost every game since. And, Ohio State struggled in the first half. In fact, they only put up 118 yards of total offense.
Stroud did not do much through the air, recording 10 completions for 76 yards on 26 attempts. He did contribute to their rushing attack, as picked up 79 yards on six carries, with his longest run logging in at 44-yards. That’s right, he had more rushing yards and passing yards in Week 10.
Ohio State was able to pick up the 21-7 win, but failed to make their case to be the No. 1 ranked team in the College Football Playoff.
Given how Hooker performed, Stroud was slightly better, and the main factor in the decision being the Ohio State signal-caller didn’t turn over the football.
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