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1999 Heisman Watch & Preseason Top 25

© Chuck Bednar

Okay, so while most college fans are getting ready for the start of the season about this time, somebody always invariably asks the question: "Who will win the Heisman Trophy this year?" Of course, it's far too early to know for sure, but here's a partial list of the guys you should keep an eye on in 1999:

Peter Warrick, WR, Florida State - Warrick was one of the top candidates last season after catching 53 passes for 884 yards and eight TDs in 1997. So what does he do for an encore? In 12 games last season, Warrick caught 61 passes for 1239 yards and 12 touchdowns. A season like that would have made Warrick some big bucks in the pros, but the FSU flanker returned because he wants a National Championship. Warrick is hands down the best receiver in the country, and is the early favorite to be named the best player in the country as well.

Chris Redmond, QB, Louisville - The Cardinals were No. 2 in the country last season in total offense, due largely to the strong arm of Redmond. The Louisville QB threw for 4,378 yards and 30 TDs and could well lead his team to an undefeated record this season. Weak schedule and Conference USA affiliation could hurt Redmond, but that won't matter if the senior plays as well as expected.

Drew Brees, QB, Purdue - This kid is the real deal. Brees threw for 3,983 yards last season, and tossed a Big Ten record 39 touchdowns as a sophomore. This year should be even better for Brees, who now as an expanded playbook, a little more wisdom and a whole lot more confidence. If Purdue is as good as they look this season, winning the Heisman could be a breeze for the Boilermaker QB.

Ron Dayne, RB, Wisconsin - Dayne lost some ground last season in the eyes of many Heisman voters. He had a good season, running for 1,525 yards and 15 TDs, and ran wild over UCLA in the Rose Bowl (246 yards). But he disappeared during some of the Badgers' big games last season, including the now infamous "wrong-way runs" against Michigan. Dayne will probably break Ricky Williams career rushing record this season, but it'll be his performance against tough Big Ten rivals that dictates whether or not he is Heisman quality.

Travis Prentice, RB, Miami (Oh.) - While other running backs may get all the hype, Prentice has quietly put up some of the best numbers in college football. Prentice scored 19 touchdowns and ran for 1,787 yards last season for an improving Red Hawks team. His success in the Heisman race will depend on whether or not the country takes notice of Miami this season. If they end in the Top 25, then he could well pull the greatest upset in Heisman history.

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