Bernard does more with less than just about any other 2007 Heisman candidate. He lacks ideal size (5’9”, 202) and breakaway speed (a long run of 28 yards in 2006), but he more than makes up for those seeming deficiencies with durability, toughness and determination, not to mention great hands out of the backfield (43 catches in ’06).

He also may be the most consistent running back in America. In 2005, Bernard rushed for 1,321 yards on 299 carries (4.4 yards per carry) and 13 touchdowns, plus 37 catches out of the backfield. Last season produced a virtual carbon copy: 296 carries, 1,307 yards and 12 touchdowns, with 43 catches. In addition, he’s a superb blocker on those occasions when he’s not sneaking out of the backfield and catching swing passes.

Athlon's 2007 Heisman Watch

He’s also the established leader of the Beavers and has earned the respect of both his teammates and his coaches. It was Bernard who convinced coach Mike Riley to go for two points and the win with 22 seconds left in the Sun Bowl against Missouri, and it was Bernard who rewarded his coach’s faith in him by bulling his way for the winning conversion.

If it’s possible, expect Bernard to be even more of a workhorse this season, giving him ample opportunity to produce some eye-popping numbers. There’s uncertainty at the quarterback position, where Riley is likely to go with a two-headed approach, and four out of five starters return to what could be the best offensive line in the Pac-10.

Oregon State Team Preview

This is a critical year for the Riley regime, so look for him to put the ball in the hands of his most established, consistent threat. The result could be a Heisman decorating the trophy case in Corvallis.

Why he’ll be holding the hardware: If he stays healthy, Bernard should produce Heisman-worthy numbers running behind a dominant offensive line. If some of those numbers come against Pac-10 contenders UCLA and USC, he’ll be impossible to ignore.

Why he’ll be left out: In 2006, the Beavers stumbled out of the gate, posting a 2–3 start to the season. A similar start this year will eliminate Bernard from the conversation early on, and it’s tough for a guy who plays his home games in Corvallis to dent the national consciousness. Obviously, good health is key, and it’s not a given considering his workload.

Final analysis: Bernard has to be considered a solid darkhorse. A Sept. 29 home date with UCLA is worth watching; if Bernard is the star of a Beavers win in that contest, he’ll be in the race for the long haul.