October 14, 2009

Olin Buchanan
Rivals.com College Football Senior Writer

VOTE: Tell us who you would vote for this week

Stats and highlights are important and wins always are a factor, but the most critical requirement in winning the Heisman Trophy may be standout performances in big games.

Any good player can post impressive numbers or make a sensational play in a victory against overmatched competition. But excel in games with high stakes when the nation is watching, and Heisman voters surely will remember when ballots are due.

A few examples:

USC's Carson Palmer passed for 425 yards and four touchdowns against Notre Dame in 2002.

Michigan's Charles Woodson had a punt return for a touchdown and an end zone interception in a victory over Ohio State in 1997.

LSU's Billy Cannon broke seven tackles on a game-winning, 89-yard punt return against Ole Miss in 1959.

Of course, one big performance - even in a big game - isn't enough to earn the title of "most outstanding college football player," but it can make a difference.

With that in mind, this is an especially key week for many Heisman contenders.

Texas quarterback Colt McCoy's candidacy has waned with pedestrian performances against questionable competition. But he could re-establish himself as a strong contender with a good showing against Oklahoma.

Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen already is among the leading candidates, and he has a chance to convert any remaining doubters when the Irish face USC.

Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh is gaining supporters and could add more with a dominant showing against Texas Tech's high-scoring offense.

Florida quarterback Tim Tebow hasn't had a spectacular outing, though that won't matter if he outduels Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett.

Olin Buchanan is the senior college football writer for Rivals.com. He can be reached at olin@rivals.com.