Whether it’s Coach Brian Kelly, LSU football legend Tyrann Mathieu, or former Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III, the Jayden Daniels for Heisman campaign is gaining more followers by the day. In honor of his legendary season, here’s a look at some of his best plays in 2023.
Jayden Daniels for Heisman: a trip down memory lane
Hard work does pay off
One of the biggest concerns for Tiger fans heading into the 2023 season was the arm of quarterback Jayden Daniels. We all knew what he was capable of on the run, but his proficiency through the air was still a major question mark.
The term “was” is the crucial part of that sentence. Today, all of said concerns feel like a distance memory after the season Jayden Daniels has showcased for the world.
Through 12 games, Daniels has indisputably been one of the best passers in the country. Accumulating 3,812 yards (3rd nationally) and 40 touchdowns (1st nationally) through the air, very few quarterbacks come close to rivaling him.
Notably, his downfield passing efficiency has by far been the most impressive. As things stand, he ranks No. 1 in passing yards per attempt, averaging 11.66 yards per pass. All season long, he’s shown an ability to lob it up to his teammates, consistently putting the ball right on the money for his receivers.
More than a quarterback
As good as Daniels has been as a passer, it’s his ability on the run that elevates him above the competition. Whether extending a play to throw the ball to one of his receivers or taking it himself, his legs make him nearly impossible to guard.
In 2023, he has amassed 1,134 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground. For context, that ranks No. 21 and No. 39, respectively, among all players regardless of position. When considering only quarterbacks, his ranking jumps to No. 1 and No. 8 nationally.
With the combination of his running and passing ability, Jayden Daniels quickly becomes the most dangerous player in college football. In fact, his 412.2 total yards per game exceed the second-best player by over 70 yards.
When thinking about the Heisman Trophy, an award for individual excellence on a football field, it’s hard to imagine anyone else having a chance at winning. Still, even in the unlikely event that the LSU football quarterback doesn’t secure it, there’s no doubt that Jayden Daniels will forever be a Tiger legend.
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