College Football Heisman Race: Mark Ingram And Matt Leinart Share Their Picks For 2024

David

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Post on Sep 08, 2025

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College Football Heisman Race: Ingram and Leinart Weigh In on 2024's Top Contenders

The Heisman Trophy, college football's most coveted award, is always a hot topic, and with the 2024 season looming, speculation is already rife. This year, we have a unique opportunity to hear from two Heisman winners themselves – Mark Ingram II (2009) and Matt Leinart (2004) – as they share their early picks for the 2024 race. Who do these legends see taking home the prestigious trophy? Let's dive in!

Ingram's Insight: A Focus on the Ground Game

Mark Ingram II, known for his powerful running style during his time at Alabama, brings a keen eye for talent, particularly in the backfield. While acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the college football season, Ingram highlighted several running backs poised for a breakout year. He emphasized the importance of consistent performance and a strong supporting cast, stating, "It's not just about individual yards; it's about impacting the game in crucial moments."

He specifically mentioned Caleb Love (QB, UNC) as a dark horse candidate, emphasizing the potential for a quarterback to dominate the Heisman voting if they have an exceptionally strong season and their team excels. Ingram also highlighted the crucial role of offensive line play in a running back's success, suggesting that the success of several top running backs will depend on their offensive line's performance. He didn't explicitly name names but hinted at several players from SEC schools to watch.

Leinart's Perspective: The Quarterback's Reign

Matt Leinart, a quarterback known for his precision and leadership at USC, offered a different perspective. While acknowledging the potential of running backs, Leinart believes that the 2024 Heisman Trophy will likely be claimed by a quarterback. He pointed to the increased emphasis on passing offenses and the sheer statistical dominance a quarterback can achieve.

Leinart highlighted Quinn Ewers (QB, Texas) as a player with the potential to lead his team to victory and rack up impressive numbers, setting him up for a strong Heisman campaign. He also mentioned the importance of a quarterback's leadership qualities, stating that "the best quarterbacks elevate their entire team." This subtly hints at the need for a quarterback not only to have impressive stats but also lead their team to success. He also expressed cautious optimism about a few other quarterbacks whose names remain unannounced, emphasizing the need to wait and see how they perform under pressure.

Early Predictions and Key Factors

Both Ingram and Leinart agree that predicting the Heisman winner this early is a challenging task. The 2024 season is bound to bring surprises and unforeseen circumstances. However, several key factors will undoubtedly influence the race:

• Team Success: A player's individual performance is heavily intertwined with their team's success. Leading a team to a conference championship or a playoff berth significantly boosts a player's Heisman chances.
• Statistical Dominance: Exceptional statistics, particularly in key offensive categories (passing yards, rushing yards, touchdowns), are crucial for attracting Heisman voters' attention.
• National Media Exposure: Visibility and consistent positive media coverage play a significant role in shaping public perception and influencing voters.

Conclusion: The Race is On!

The 2024 Heisman Trophy race promises to be thrilling. While Ingram and Leinart have offered valuable insights and early predictions, the ultimate winner will depend on consistent performance, team success, and a bit of luck. Keep an eye on the mentioned players and others who might emerge as contenders throughout the season. The race is on! Who are your picks for the 2024 Heisman Trophy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!