Big Ten: Top 5 Big Ten Heisman Trophy Candidates After Week 1

Sep 7, 2015; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback Cardale Jones (12) throws a pass during the first quarter against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports

1) Cardale Jones

I am sure the television ratings were through the roof when the Ohio State Buckeyes had their rematch with the Virginia Tech Hokies in week one.  This was a rematch of last season’s game where Ohio State lost the second game of the season.  That ended up being their only loss of the season and they went on to win the National Championship.

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The Buckeyes won the rematch and it was led by returning quarterback Cardale Jones.

The discussion leading up to the game was who was going to start at quarterback for Ohio State.  They didn’t announce it to the world and both Jones and J.T. Barrett were suited up in the huddle at the beginning of the game.  Head Coach Urban Meyer answered the question when he told Jones he was the starter mere seconds before the first play of the game.

Jones took advantage of his playing time and showed the world why he is the starter.  He was 9-18 for 186 yards and 2 touchdowns in the defeat of Virginia Tech 42-24.  While those stats don’t jump off the sheet, his running ability is why he is a Heisman Trophy contender.

Jones added in another 99 yards and 1 touchdown on the ground in the rout of the Hokies.  His impressive leadership shined bright on the big stage and that is why Ohio State is so scary.

Next: Heisman Trophy Candidate #2