When he took over last season in the shadow of Heisman Trophy winner Carson Palmer, Leinart never had thrown a pass for the Trojans. He ended the season in the spotlight. The left-handed All-American started 13 games and was 255-of-402 for 3,556 yards and 38 touchdowns (with just nine interceptions) and led USC to a share of the national championship. Leinart was third nationally in passing efficiency (164.5) and was voted team MVP. Now the junior is a leading candidate for the Heisman and begins the season as the leader of the No. 1 team in the nation.
2. David Pollack, Sr., Georgia DE
For two seasons, he has been the heart and soul of Georgia's stellar defense. His sophomore season was so successful that opponents changed their approach to containing Pollack last year. And despite being doubled nearly every play last season, he started all 14 games and had 92 tackles (47 solo), 13.5 tackles for loss. Considered by many to be the best defensive end in the nation, Pollack is poised to have another strong season, this time getting help from a more veteran defensive unit. He is among the leading candidates for the Lombardi, Hendricks and Nagurski awards, and a key component in No. 3 Georgia making a serious run for the national title this year.
3. Darren Sproles, Sr., Kansas State RB
His 1,986 yards led the nation last season, which ranks at No. 11 on the NCAA all-time season rushing chart. Sproles added 16 touchdowns and had nine consecutive 100-yard games, but didn't garner nearly the attention as other big-name players. He's a preseason All-America candidate and among the early favorites for the Doak Walker award for the nation's best running back.
4. Jason White, Sr., Oklahoma QB
He was the leader of a team that was ranked No. 1 in the nation most of last season, and won the Heisman Trophy. In 14 games, White threw for 3,846 yards and 40 touchdowns, an OU record. But it wasn't an easy season for him. He played injured and in pain late in the season as Oklahoma lost its final two games - the Big 12 championship and the national championship game against LSU. Now White is out to prove the good part of last season wasn't a fluke and he is among the best players in the nation. Oklahoma will once again have a powerful offense, which should aid White in his efforts to become only the second two-time Heisman winner.
5. Chris Leak, So., Florida QB
He took over as the starter five games into the season and finished with the highest winning percentage of any freshman quarterback in the country. He was named the Sporting News SEC Offensive Freshman of the Year. He threw for 2,435 yards. A year older, more mature, and familiar with the system, expectations are even higher for the 19-year-old. He's being mentioned as a Heisman candidate and has been named to the Davey O'Brien watch list. Many believe that how Leak goes, so go the Gators.
