Early 2016 Heisman Trophy Picks: Where does Chubb fit in?
By Jay Hawkins
2. RB Christian McCaffrey – Stanford
Probably the most enjoyable player in college football to watch is Christian McCaffrey. I was a big fan of Derrick Henry last year, but I think, if more people had been able to see McCaffrey (Pac 12 kickoffs are not fun.), he might have won the Heisman last year instead.
McCaffrey is one of the fastest players in all of college football. The rising junior from Castle Rock, Colo., had a breakout season at Stanford last year. He broke Barry Sanders’ FBS single season all-purpose yards record with over 5,000 total yards.
Besides rushing for over 2,000 yards, McCaffrey was a weapon in the passing game and as a kick returner. He even threw two touchdown passes.
McCaffrey is the ultimate playmaker. His biggest performance was in the Pac 12 Title Game against USC where he rushed for 207 yards, recorded over 100 receiving yards and had two touchdowns. After not winning the Heisman despite being a finalist, McCaffrey had a chip on his shoulder and put on a show (172 rushing, 105 receiving yards) in the Rose Bowl in a 45-16 demolition of Iowa.
McCaffrey is fast, elusive and athletic. He just make plays constantly, and he’s a threat to go the distance whenever he touches the ball.
I recently talked to Stanford defensive coordinator Lance Anderson, and he said McCaffrey is an outstanding person too. Unless he is injured or something unforeseen happens, McCaffrey will be a Heisman finalist once again and just might lift the trophy come December.
Next: 1-Deshaun Watson