Editor’s note: This article was originally published by USA TODAY Sports and has been republished in its entirety below.
Justin Fields is closing fast in the Heisman race. The Ohio State quarterback vaulted into second place in this week’s USA TODAY Network survey.
Alabama quarterback Mac Jones continues to hold the lead with a majority of first-place mentions. But with the Crimson Tide in an open date and Clemson’s Trevor Lawrence unable to play because of COVID-19 protocols,
Fields made a big move thanks to another ultra-efficient passing day in the Buckeyes’ win against Rutgers. Through three games, he has thrown as many touchdown passes, 11, as incompletions. He was listed second by over half of the 22 survey participants who work for USA TODAY Network properties and have official Heisman votes.
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Lawrence, who won’t return to action until Clemson’s next game Nov. 21 against Florida State, is now in a close battle for third with two other prolific passers, Florida’s Kyle Trask and Zach Wilson of BYU.
Jones’ teammate, running back Najee Harris, who shares the national lead with 14 rushing scores, remains on the radar. In all, nine players appeared on ballots this week. Iowa State running back Breece Hall and Liberty quarterback Malik Willis were named for the first time this season.
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