Sure it’s still summer, but by the laws of sheer chronology, that means all the inner-squad Spring games have all come and gone, making it the perfect time to take an early look at the favorites to be invited to New York come December.

  1. Dion Lewis – Last year’s third leading rusher in the nation didn’t lose a fumble all season, proving more than enough to fill the shoes of LeSean McCoy.  Pittsburgh’s youngster also has a distinct advantage; for three consecutive seasons the Heisman trophy has gone to a sophomore.  Lewis is hands down the most proven second year player in the nation, and has shown up big in big games so far in his career.
  2. Ryan Mallett – Everyone knows Heisman voters favor the quarterback position, but with a relatively weak crop of QBs in 2010, Mallett stands as one of the lone true signal calling contenders.  Entering his second season as the Razorbacks QB, he should improve upon an already impressive first year that has the struggling Michigan fans lamenting the day he left campus.
  3. Jacquizz Rodgers – As the Pac-10 looks at a rebuilding year with the demise of USC, Rodgers is ready to tear up an easier conference schedule.  Having already eclipsed 1,000 yards in his first seasons, look for Oregon State’s dual-threat speedster to put up career high numbers across the board.
  4. Mark Ingram – The only man in college football with Ed Smith’s bronze body already under his belt, Ingram might be the most familiar name on this list.  However, only Archie Griffin has ever pulled off the Heisman double down, making chances of Ingram actually adding a second statue slim to none.  Win or lose, the Alabama RB is a sure thing to at least receive an invite.
  5. Terrelle Pryor – This pick is more on potential than anything displayed on the field last season.  The former top recruit in the nation has as much natural talent as anyone in the country and leads an Ohio State team that is certain to win a lot of games.  With very few legitimate candidates under center, a breakout season from Pryor could be enough to take home the trophy.