Campus Confidential

BY MIKE ROSE

Earlier in the summer, I put together a list of 10 or so Heisman Trophy contenders. I promised I would cut that list down, and now I have. Below are my five Heisman Trophy leaders (Ranked as I see them at this point).

Tim Tebow, Jr., QB, Florida: You must start the new season with the reigning Heisman winner in the top spot. Tebow had an incredible year in 2007 -- over 3,000 yards passing with 32 touchdowns to go with nearly 900 yards rushing and 23 touchdowns. The one thing that scares me is that Tebow takes a lot of punishment in the tough SEC.

Chris Wells, Jr. RB, Ohio State: Wells is the best running back in the country. He rushed for over 1,600 yards last season. The Buckeyes will be in the national championship picture all season. So Wells will get plenty of attention. If he can eclipse last year's totals, he'll be tough to beat for the Heisman this season.

Chase Daniel, Sr., QB, Missouri: Daniel threw for over 4,000 yards and 33 touchdowns last season. If the Tigers can win the Big 12 and challenge for a national title, I think Daniel should get strong consideration, because his statistics will be better this time.

Pat White, Sr., QB, West Virginia: White rushed for over 1,300 yards last season and threw for over 1,700. But I think this is the season where he makes a serious bid for the Heisman. With Steve Slaton gone, it is White's team. New coach Bill Stewart has indicated that White will throw more this season. As long as the Mountaineers stay in the national title hunt, White will be a contender.

Knowshon Moreno, So., RB, Georgia: Some will tell you he's the second coming of Herschel Walker. I wouldn't go that far -- yet. Moreno rushed for over 1,300 yards and 14 touchdowns as a freshman. Unfortunately, Moreno is in the same backfield with star QB Matthew Stafford. And freshman Caleb King will also get his share of carries. So that doesn't bode well for Moreno's chances this season. Still, he'll be a threat. If Moreno stays in school, I think he's the 2009 Heisman frontrunner.