Let's Talk Heisman!

Not a snap has occurred, yet everyone already "knows" who will win the Heisman.  Predictions, Top 5 lists, and school endorsed campaigns are out.  It's the equivalent of the preseason polls...useless.  Rarely does anyone see the one or two breakout players that make it to New York, and the "clear cut" winner is always hamstrung by upset losses.  Here are my finalists (in no particular order), based on not who will make it to New York, but who should.

1. Matt Barkely, QB USC - Even if the Trojans fail to meet expectations, there is no possible way Barkley isn't a finalist.  He has the talent and a slew of the nations best receivers.  All he needs to is chuck it up and watch his stats sky rocket.  Voters just love the stats...
2. Colin Klein, QB Kansas State - Speaking of stats, if Klein can repeat his 2011 season of 40 total touchdowns (27 rushing, 13 passing) and 3,000 total yards then the kid deserves a free trip to the Big Apple.  He's a dynamic dual threat QB, and Kansas State should be better in Bill Snyder's second year.  A few marquee wins here or there and he's a legitimate contender.
3. Montee Ball, RB Wisconsin - Ball's Heisman campaign didn't catch on with the public until the later half of the 2011 season, but anyone who watched the Badgers last year knew he fueled the Badger offense.  Russell Wilson is gone so defenses will be keying in on Ball this season, but he'll continue to be Mr. Dependable and follow up the record tying 2011 season with yet another dominant performance.
4. David Amerson, CB NC State - 13 interceptions last season led the nation in picks, and if opposing defenses decide to test their luck on his side of the field, expect a repeat of 2011.  Amerson is known as opportunistic and it shows by his number, but he's improved as a lock-down defender and is developing into the complete package.
5. De'Anthony Thomas, RB Oregon - If you're looking for a walking Heisman highlight, look no further.  No one in the nation is more electrifying.  The speedy and elusive running back in the up-tempo Oregon offense will get the majority of carries in his second year, so if he can stay healthy and take the grind of an every down player, Thomas may just win the Heisman.