The Heisman finalists for the 2014 college football season include Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota, Alabama receiver Amari Cooper and Wisconsin running back Melvin Gordon, setting up a battle of three prolific offensive players that represent all three major skill positions on the field.
The finalists were named on Monday night following the conclusion of the regular season and college football conference championship games and the nominees do not include last year's winner Jameis Winston. Mariota comes in as the leading quarterback in the country for the number two ranked Ducks, while Gordon set numerous records while playing for the Badgers. Cooper comes in as the top receiver in the nation for the number one Crimson Tide, who will play against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Sugar Bowl.
The Oregon Ducks and Florida State Seminoles will be matching up in the Rose Bowl and that game could have the current Heisman winner against last year's winner. The finalists for the Heisman were voted on by over 900 media members and past winners of the award and Winston missed out on making it after winning last season. Winston led his team to an undefeated season in 2014, but his stats were nowhere near as good as they were when he won as a freshman.
Mariota put up some great numbers with nearly 3,800 yards and 38 touchdowns while throwing just two interceptions, while he is also the top rated passer. Mariota has also rushed for 669 yards and 14 touchdowns. Gordon has been fantastic while rushing for 2,336 yards this season and against Nebraska he had 408 yards to set the single season record, which was broken the following week. Cooper has been the best receiver in the SEC with 115 catches for 1,656 yards and 14 touchdowns.
The winner will be announced on Saturday.
