OK, who's going to provide the serious competition?
Well, South Carolina's Marcus Lattimore just went down for the duration. Oregon's LaMichael James, a 2010 finalist, sat out last week with an elbow injury but could be back soon. Assuming he returns at something approaching his usual self, he could still be a factor. Especially if the Ducks beat Stanford.
Boise State's Kellen Moore also made it to New York a year ago. He figures to do so again. There's no disputing what he's done. But he doesn't play in a BCS conference. Perhaps that shouldn't matter. Relevant or not, it probably doesn't help his cause.
Alabama's Trent Richardson doesn't look like he's going away any time soon. And a Crimson Tide running back did win it 2 years ago, perhaps even with not as much on his resume. Oklahoma has two candidates in quarterback Landry Jones and wide receiver Ryan Broyles. Two Sooner QBs have won in the last 7 years. But a wide receiver hasn't won since Desmond Howard in 1991. Oklahoma State QB Brandon Weeden might be able to work his way into the equation if the Cowboys beat Oklahoma. Ditto Wisconsin QB Russell Wilson, who has already locked down transfer of the year, should those Badgers remain and-0.
In this century all but two of the 10 winners have played in the national-title game, the exceptions being Carson Palmer in 2002 and Tim Tebow 5 years later. And nine quarterbacks have struck the pose, which would seemingly narrow the possibilities.
Although Houston's Case Keenum certainly will have the numbers, and that should be enough to get him to the ceremonies, he doesn't fit the profile.
TRIVIAL PURSUIT
The last time Kansas State was 6-0, in 2000, who was its quarterback? Hint: He went 21-4 as a starter. See Answer man.
THIS AND THAT
