[Lefty Noob]

Ohio State quarterback Troy Smith was suspended for the first game of the season and split duties with Justin Zwick during the Buckeye's loss to Texas in the second game. But he came into his own by the end of the season, leading the conference in passing efficiency (162.65) while becoming the first OSU QB ever to throw for 2,000 yards and run for at least 500. Ironically, he's not getting near as much Heisman buzz as teammate Ted Ginn. Is Troy Smith the most underrated quarterback in college football?

[cjg11582]

Probably, Drew Tate, Drew Stanton and Chad Henne are all more noteworthy on the national scene. Which is odd because with the ecxeption of Henne at Michigan, Smith plays at unquestionably the most prolific school. I really feel like if Brady Quinn goes down with an injury, the heisman is Troy Smith's too lose. His numbers and OSU's success will be the dtermining factor.
And I have commented on this before, but Ted Ginn has such a minute chance of winning the heisman that I am surprised people are talking discussing it at the frequency they are. He is essentially the wide receiver equivalent of a third down back, he simply will not get the touches to compete as the best player in college football. The only exception is if he plays ironman, but that would be impractical too waste his offensive talent because the secondary is loaded this season. Most explosive: definitely. The most valuable/productive: Not a prayer.

[Lefty Noob]

People love Heisman winners to make those big, explosive, highlight reel plays. It shouldn't sway voters away from the more consistant athlete, but sometimes it does. I'll admit that Smith's numbers took me by surprise. I always thought he was OK, but didn't realize he was the most efficient passer in the Big Ten. Guess I've been overlooking this kid for too long.

[Doctor Know]

If Ohio State is able to run the table and win the Championship, Troy Smith will win the Heisman. The only player who could take it from him is Brady Quinn of Notre Dam. But I think Notre Dame is over rated and will lose two or three games early in the season.

[Lefty Noob]

Originally Posted by Doctor Know

If Ohio State is able to run the table and win the Championship, Troy Smith will win the Heisman.

Whoa... that's one hell of a prediction, considering a lot of the voting block is incorrectly under the assumption that Smith may not be the best candidate on his own team (Ginn). What about a guy like Steve Slaton, who has a real opportunity to put up huge numbers for WVU against a shaky schedule, and likely will be playing in a BCS bowl game? Or Mike Hart and Adrian Peterson? Both go to big-time schools and will be given every opportunity to steal the national spotlight. Don't get me wrong, I like Smith as a candidate, but even if the Buckeyes run the table I don't think he's a shoo-in.

[Doctor Know]

Steve Slaton will put up big numbers for WVU..... But the problem is WVU is not a school that you think of Hesiman Trophy winners coming from. This along with the weak schedule will hurt him in the voting for the award. Adrian Peterson is a great player....probably he is the best player in the country. However, given the removal of their starting quarteback, I don't think Oklahoma will have the season anticipated.