In each of the last three seasons, the Heisman Trophy winner has played in the BCS championship game. This year, several star players could be capable of leading a team to a title run.


Here’s a look at the top 5 favorites from BODOG Sportsbook and a viable longshot to come away with college football’s top individual honor:

Stanford Cardinal Quarterback Andrew Luck (3-1)

It will be hard for Luck to top his 2010 campaign. He completed over 70% of his passes with 32 TD strikes for a Stanford club that went 12-1 to finish fourth in the nation. In 2011, the senior signal-caller will have to adjust to the departure of head coach Jim Harbaugh to the NFL and the graduation of his top three receivers from the 2010 team. Luck could gain some momentum in the second half of the season in key battles against USC, Oregon and Notre Dame.

Michigan Wolverines Quarterback Denard Robinson (5-1)

In the first half of last season, Robinson was a top Heisman contender. However, the struggles of his team at the end of the year took Robinson out of contention. Still, the junior ranked second in the nation with over 1,700 rushing yards while also throwing for more than 2,500 yards. It will remain to be seen how Robinson produces under new Michigan head coach Brady Hoke. With Notre Dame, Nebraska and Ohio State all heading to Ann Arbor in 2011, Robinson has a chance to record some marquee victories.

South Carolina Gamecocks Running Back Marcus Lattimore (5-1)

As a freshman last season, Lattimore carried South Carolina to its first ever SEC East title. He rushed for nearly 1,200 yards in 2010 with 17 scoring runs. On a team that is still searching for a consistent passing game, Lattimore could become even more of a force in 2011.

Oregon Ducks Running Back LaMichael James (6-1)

While leading the nation in rushing (1,731 yards) last season, James and his Oregon teammates were within three points of winning a national championship. The junior has rushed for more than 1,500 yards in each of his first two collegiate seasons. An opening game matchup against the LSU Tigers in Dallas could allow James to make an early statement in the Heisman race.

Oklahoma Sooners Quarterback Landry Jones (6-1)

The junior signal-caller is a big reason why the Sooners are the early favorite to win the 2011 national championship. Despite having to succeed 2008 Heisman winner Sam Bradford, Jones has been up to the task. He passed for more than 4,700 yards a year ago with 38 TD passes.

Longshot ROI Pick

USC Trojans Quarterback Matt Barkley (30-1)

With a pair of USC quarterbacks winning the Heisman within the last decade, Barkley has a chance to add his name to the list in 2011. The junior made some great strides in 2010 from his freshman season by delivering 26 touchdown tosses for the Trojans. While Barkley will get plenty of media attention by playing for one of college football’s all-time great programs, his team will be ineligible for a bowl game for a second straight season due to some NCAA sanctions.

2011-2012 Heisman Trophy Odds:

(bet on your Heisman winner at BODOG)

(odds updated June 29, 2011)

- Andrew Luck (QB Stanford) 9/2

- Dan Persa (QB Northwestern) 95/1