One-time Heisman-winning QB names top five contenders for 2023 trophy

Matt Leinart knows a thing or two about being a high-level college football player. 

The former USC quarterback was a Heisman Trophy winner as well as a national champion. He parlayed his success at USC to a six-year career in the NFL and is now a respected analyst. The point is, what Leinart says about college football and the Heisman Trophy — in particular — carries weight.

Leinart recently released his top five Heisman contenders heading into 2023, and it's worth noting and certainly not surprising that his list is chock-full of quarterbacks. He has LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels at No. 5, North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye at No. 3 and reining Heisman winner and USC quarterback Caleb Williams at No. 1. 

It's worth noting that only one player has ever won back-to-back Heisman trophies, and that was Ohio State running back Archie Griffin in 1974 and 1975.

Leinart thinks it's likely Williams joins Griffin in that exclusive club.

“Yes he won it last year. And there’s no reason why he can’t win it again this year. I think Caleb Williams might throw for 60 touchdowns and 5,000 yards. Will there be voter fatigue? Will they be sick of another Trojan winning? I think not. He is my favorite to win back-to-back Heisman trophies,” Leinart said, via On3.

There were two non-quarterbacks on Leinart's list. The first was Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. at No. 4. Michigan running back Blake Corum checked in at No. 2.