2021 Heisman Trophy finalists announced

Luke Easterling
·2 min read
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After another wild, entertaining college football season, we now know the finalists for the sport’s most prestigious individual award for the 2021 campaign.

Here are the dynamic playmakers who will be making the trip to New York for this year’s Heisman Trophy ceremony:

Aidan Hutchinson | EDGE | Michigan

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

It’s rare for a defensive player to make the final cut for the Heisman, but Hutchinson’s dominant play throughout the entire 2021 season makes his presence more than worthy. After breaking Michigan’s single-season sack record, Hutchinson could make a strong case to join fellow Wolverine Charles Woodson as the only defensive players to ever take home the award.

Bryce Young | QB | Alabama

(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

Despite a lack of starting experience and an undersized frame for a quarterback, Young has torched opposing defenses all year long after taking over for first-round pick Mac Jones in Tuscaloosa. His huge numbers were impressive, but his gutsy performance in a late comeback win on the road against Auburn, as well as his demolition of Georgia’s vaunted defense in the SEC title game, make Young the favorite.

C.J. Stroud | QB | Ohio State

(Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

Another underclassman who made the most of his first opportunity to be the full-time starting quarterback at a powerhouse program, Stroud has put up video-game numbers for the Buckeyes this season. The 6-3, 215-pound freshman has thrown 38 touchdown passes so far this year, compared to just five interceptions.

Kenny Pickett | QB | Pitt

(Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)

On the other side of the quarterback spectrum is Pickett, a seasoned veteran who made the most of his extra year of eligibility. This “super senior” broke school records previously held by the legendary Dan Marino, capping off his impressive 2021 campaign with an ACC title. Even if Pickett doesn’t win the Heisman, he could end up being the first quarterback selected in the 2022 NFL draft.

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