Tyrann Mathieu: Is the Honey Badger the Heisman Front-Runner for 2012?

On Saturday evening, the Heisman Trophy was presented to Robert Griffin III of Baylor University. 

Griffin is quite deserving of the award, accomplished on the field and in the classroom.

Griffin made a huge impression on the Heisman voters with his spectacular quarterback play and tremendous athletic ability.

The fact that Griffin even had a chance is amazing, considering the national media had practically given the award to Stanford’s Andrew Luck before the season even started.

Nothing against Luck, but his play this season—especially in big games—was not as spectacular as last season.

Griffin earned it and Luck was very gracious and humble as the runner up.

Both of these guys demonstrated the great qualities that should be exhibited by candidates and winners of the Heisman.

On to next year.

Is Tyrann Mathieu the front runner for the Heisman in 2012?

As was the situation with Luck, Mathieu will probably be given a favorable amount of early publicity for the award as next season starts, especially if LSU can finish off their miraculous season with a BCS National Championship.

The key for Mathieu winning the award, a feat that Luck could not accomplish, is to have another stellar season and not regress.

Winning the award as a defensive player is virtually impossible. 

Mathieu will need to secure Heisman votes with his special teams play.

Touchdowns are what voters like and it doesn’t matter what side of the ball you play on.

In John Chavis’ defense, Mathieu will get his chance to shine.  He simply needs to capitalize on every opportunity (as he has so far in his career), stay out of trouble off of the field and he’ll have an excellent shot at winning the Heisman.