Texas quarterback Sam Ehlinger is widely projected to become a Heisman contender this season.
A well-respected preseason magazine, Lindy’s Sports, recently ranked their top 10 players who have the best shot at taking home the Heisman trophy.
We’ve seen Ehlinger appear as high as No. 3 overall on numerous lists of Heisman odds, but Lindy’s put the senior quarterback at No. 7 overall. This fell behind Oklahoma’s inexperienced quarterback Spencer Rattler.
Texas hasn’t had a Heisman winner since Ricky Williams in 1998 and hasn’t produced a finalist for the award since Colt McCoy in 2009. Ehlinger has quietly put up impressive numbers throughout his collegiate career thus far, including 4,326 yards of total offense last season that ranked second only to McCoy’s 4,420 yards in 2008.
On top of that, he’s now moved ahead of former quarterback Vince Young in career total offense, single season passing yards, and total touchdowns. As many know, Young and McCoy are the pride and joy of Austin. Ehlinger has a chance to join the trio if he is able to lead Texas to the college football playoffs.
He’s consistently progressed each season as a starter, if this year were to fall along the same path of development, he should remain a primary favorite to win the award behind Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence and Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields.
There is no doubt that Ehlinger is the heartbeat of Texas’ offense. His competitive drive, leadership, and physical style of play is unmatched. One of the most eye-catching traits about him is that he shows up against the toughest competition. He accounted for five total touchdowns and a career-high 401 passing yards last season against LSU.
Take a look at the top 10 Heisman odds provided by Lindy’s Sports magazine below.
10. Ian Book, QB, Notre Dame
9. Mac Jones, QB, Alabama
8. Bo Nix, QB, Auburn
7. Sam Ehlinger, QB, Texas
6. Myles Brennnan, QB, LSU
5. Spencer Rattler, QB, Oklahoma
4. D’Eriq King, QB, Miami
3. Jamie Newman, QB, Georgia
2. Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson
1. Justin Fields, QB, Ohio State