Every season, college football fans follow along with as many games as possible and determine who is the best player in the entire nation. Last year, it was USC's Caleb Williams who took home the Heisman Trophy. This year, it's Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. The left-handed quarterback has captivated fans with the accuracy of his passes and the velocity of the football with a simple flick of the wrist. Penix has helped lead one of the most electric offenses in all of college football and is a leading contender to win the Heisman.
- Scott Rogust
FanSided Staff Writer
Best fan moment of the year
Michael Penix Jr. had his true Heisman moment in the team's Week 7 game against the Oregon Ducks. With the Huskies trailing 33-29 late in the fourth quarter, Washington's defense forced the Ducks and quarterback Bo Nix to turn the ball over on downs, giving Penix the chance to lead the team to a win. Penix needed just two plays to lead the team 53 yards into the end zone, culminating in an impressive 18-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Rome Odunze to give the team the 36-33 lead with less than two minutes remaining in regulation. The Huskies would hold on after a missed field goal by Oregon's Camden Lewis.
Why you should join this fandom
Michael Penix Jr. will get the call to attend the Heisman Trophy ceremony in New York City on Dec. 9, 2023, as a finalist. After the college football season ends, Penix will be eligible for the NFL Draft, and could very well be one of the top quarterbacks taken. Given his playmaking ability, his arm power, and his passing accuracy, he could very well lead a franchise.