2005 college preview: Dark horses for Heisman

The 2005 Heisman Trophy race appears to be clearly defined before a game has been played.

Southern California QB Matt Leinart is the favorite, with a chance to join Archie Griffin as the only two-time Heisman winners.

Two other finalists from 2004 also return — Oklahoma RB Adrian Peterson and USC RB Reggie Bush — with much fanfare.

Then there are several players from high-profile programs, such as Texas QB Vince Young and Ohio State WR Ted Ginn Jr., who started their 2005 Heisman campaigns with memorable performances at the end of 2004.

KELLEN CLEMENS, QB, Oregon — Picture this: No. 1 USC comes to Autzen Stadium in late September and, led by the mobile and accurate Clemens, the Ducks pull off a season-changing upset. You never know.

OMAR JACOBS, QB, Bowling Green — Another season like 2004 — 41 TDs and four INTs — from the MAC's latest prolific passser won't go unnoticed.

MARSHAWN LYNCH, RB, California — Breakaway runner with Bush-like elusiveness, he might be more talented than J.J. Arrington, the 2,000-yard rusher he replaces in Jeff Tedford's well-tuned offense.

GERALD RIGGS, Jr., RB, Tennessee — It's taken the former most-wanted recruit four years, but he's finally "The Man" in the Vols backfield.

JaMARCUS RUSSELL, QB, LSU — The Tigers need steady quarterback play to contend for a national title. Though just a sophomore, Russell has the potential to provide so much more.