A look ahead: Heisman headliners

Rarely had a Heisman Trophy race been so dominated by three players. Reggie Bush, Vince Young and Matt Leinart started the season with much Heisman hype, exceeded the expectations and became the only finalists for college football's most celebrated award. Heading into the 2006 season, here are the players already producing a Heisman buzz:

BRADY QUINN, QB, Notre Dame — The rule is this: If the Fighting Irish are good, their quarterback has to be considered a Heisman candidate. In this case, Quinn deserves to be at the top of the Heisman watch. He might be the best quarterback in the country.

ADRIAN PETERSON, RB, Oklahoma — After being the Heisman runner-up as a freshman, Peterson seemed a lock to make another trip to New York City in 2005. Didn't happen. Injuries and an inconsistent supporting cast conspired to curtail the 218-pound battering ram. This season, he'll be back with a vengeance.

TROY SMITH, QB, Ohio State — Deep down, Buckeyes fans are convinced that if Smith hadn't been suspended for the first game of last season, Ohio State would have beaten Texas and gone on to play in the Rose Bowl. Considering how well Smith was playing at the end of the season, they might be right.

BRIAN BROHM, QB, Louisville — The latest and maybe the greatest member of the family Brohm to play for the Cardinals. The Big East player of the year is coming back from major knee surgery, and there's nothing like overcoming adversity to bolster your Heisman resume.

TED GINN JR., WR, Ohio State — Ginn is breathtakingly fast, capable of the type of highlight reel moments that sway Heisman voters. But he needs to become a more consistent receiver to even beat out Smith for the title of best player on the Buckeyes.

KENNY IRONS, RB, Auburn — The Tigers' newest star running back is a load. To watch the 5-foot-11, 200-pound senior run, you'd think he was 25 pounds heavier. He led the Southeastern Conference in rushing last season, despite starting only nine games.