By Anthony Voelpel
You can finally cross Matt Ryan off your Heisman ballots and move Dennis Dixon’s name up to the top. After a miserable loss at home against an inconsistent Seminoles team, Ryan’s chances for a free trip to New York are all but over.
Insert the Oregon quarterback Dixon’s name amongst the leaders, especially after another stellar performance against a top 10 team. This time, it was the No.4 Sun Devils he left in his dust. Dixon added four touchdowns to his already outstanding Heisman resume and has to be the favorite heading into week 10.
Also on that list has to be super sophomore Tim Tebow. Although his three losses could overshadow his impact on the field, there is no doubt he deserves a trip to the Big Apple.
That brings us to pre-season Heisman favorite Darren McFadden, who finally broke out for an absolutely tremendous game against the Gamecocks (321 yards and one touchdown). He is undoubtably the best running back in the nation, but, unless Dixon struggles down the stretch, McFadden’s name won’t be called.
Aside from the Heisman, there are a few drastic changes in this weeks top 16. Exit Arizona State and BC from the top three, enter Oregon and LSU. Let’s take a looksies:
1. Ohio State (10-0): If the Bucks can get through Illinois next week, they’ll go into the Big House against Michigan for the Big 10 title for the second consecutive season.
2. LSU (8-1): I don’t remember a team with more guts than this years LSU squad. Just when you think they’re about to lose, they make a remarkable comeback. Don’t believe me? Ask John Parker Wilson.
3. Oregon (8-1): The Ducks are the hottest team in the country. Dixon and RB Jon Stewart have been stars. Arizona on the road does, however, boast a challenge (just kidding).
4. Kansas (9-0): Hanging a 76 spot on Nebraska was flat out stunning (or embarrassing depending on which way you look at it). They play on prime time ESPN this week against OK State.
5. Oklahoma (8-1): Another Saturday and another blowout win for the Sooners. Off next week (woops, I mean baylor) followed by a trip to Lubbock to face a decent Texas Tech squad.
6. West Virginia (7-1): Thursday Night showdown against an unpredictable Louisville will provide something to think about for Pat White and Co. And I’m sure they’ll be thinking pay dirt all week.
7. Missouri (8-1): The Tigers had another big win this Saturday. Oh the parity in the Big 12. Hopefully Texas A&M will come to play next week.
8. Connecticut (8-1): A well deserved spot in my top ten, especially after the bashing they put on Rutgers. But still getting no respect from the AP (ranked No. 16)
9.Michigan (8-2):Back in the top 10, who would’ve thought after their horrible start. The heart that Henne and Hart are showing is inspiring. A visit to Wisconsin is the only thing separating the Wolverines from Ohio State and a trip to Pasadena.
10. Georgia (7-2): A slight hangover on Saturday (10 point victory against Troy) but still another great day for Merano.
11. Virginia Tech (7-2): The Hokies jumped all over the Jackets 27-3, not showing any negative affects from the prior collapse against BC. FSU will provide a stricter test when they visit Blacksburg next week.
12. Arizona State (8-1)—Can you blame ASU for losing in Oregon last week. You gotta give props to Rudy Carpenter, he’s one tough dude (300 yards passing with a sprained thumb).
13. Florida (6-3)—Percy Harvin is a freak. Not only did he rush for a 100 yards, but he had 100 receiving yards, too. It can’t be fun to play defense against the Gators.
14. USC (7-2): Who would of thought the Trojans would be playing Cal, with a combined 5 losses between them. A crazy season indeed.
15. Boston College (8-1): Against FSU and Virginia Tech, BC hasn’t played nearly as good as we’re used to seeing. At Maryland next week isn’t going to be easy either.
16.Hawaii (8-0): Can’t forget undefeated Hawaii. They’re national championship is in two weeks when Boise State comes to town.
Must see games:
No. 18 at No. 10 Georgia—These games are always crazy. Great football in the SEC.
Florida State at Virginia Tech—Two teams coming off great wins. Lane Stadium will be rockin’.
No. 12 Michigan at Wisconsin—Pray for the Wolverines win. “The biggest big game” will keep getting bigger!