All things considered

This weekend, Oklahoma sophomore quarterback Sam Bradford won the Heisman Trophy. Congratulations to him and to the Sooners- it's been a great year.

The controversy about the awards ceremony (because there always is one) is why Texas Tech's amazing QB Graham Harrell wasn't even invited to the event. Here's my take:

If he shows up, people have to deal with the fact that he and Bradford are essentially the same person.

Now, I'm not talking about some sort of doppelganger or cloning situation, or even a "two places at the same time" issue (although, that would explain some things). Nope, I mean they are both Tim Couch or Colt Brennan... They have great numbers because of the system that they're in.

Let's look at the numbers:

The difference, in my opinion, is two things. First, Bradford has played in one more game (Big 12 Championship- let's not get into that), so his stats are bound to be better. Second, he has more weapons: Better athletes, a better defense to help control the game, etc. ESPN even seems to to think so, talking about his "managing the OU offense" in their headline regarding his win.

However, while football is not an individual sport (thanks be to God), the Heisman is not a team award. While each athlete will benefit from the work of those around them, it does seem appropriate to try to judge them independant of their supporting cast (as difficult as that may be).

Which is why I also don't believe that Tim Tebow should have won this year (and no, not for the obvious reason). Tim benefits enormously from having an offense that is willing to make big plays and has great playmakers (when they're healthy). Again, it's the system (look at Utah when Urban Meyer was there)- and the fact that he's really a linebacker with a decent arm. However, I do think that Tebow should have finished second, due to his willingness to take the game into his own hands- the famous Bradford leap? Happens three or four times a game at Florida. Plus, Tebow is a good guy; devoted Christian, and seems to have a sound understanding of the Old Testament.

But my vote (no, I don't really get one) goes to Colt McCoy. He did the most with the least (no all-star WR or RB), has good passing and rushing numbers, and works in a system that requires him to actually think (not 123 throw). He's been the leader on his team all year (even bringing them back against TTU, and he shouldn't be penalized because their D can't catch an INT or make a tackle). And, if we're talking "teams"- his beat Bradford's head to head on a neutral field.

Plus, a little Heisman jinx couldn't hurt his bowl appearance, right?