2008 Heisman Watch: Dan LeFevour

The Mid-American Conference has produced several solid quarterbacks since the league expanded in 1997, and Dan LeFevour is the next player to follow in the footsteps of Chad Pennington, Byron Leftwich and Ben Roethlisberger. The junior is one of the NCAA’s top dual-threat players, and already owns Central Michigan career records for passing yards, passing touchdowns, completions and total offense — in just two seasons as a starter.

In his redshirt freshman season of 2006, LeFevour started 12 games and earned MAC Freshman of the Year and Most Valuable Player of the Motor City Bowl awards. Although the Chippewas came up just short in an upset bid over Kentucky, LeFevour produced his best performance of the year, racking up 407 yards and four touchdowns. Additionally, the 6-foot-3 quarterback led his team to a MAC Championship victory over Ohio, earning Central Michigan’s first title since 1994.

Despite the loss of head coach Brian Kelly to Cincinnati, the Chippewas continued to be an offensive force last season. LeFevour and his receivers had an adjustment period, but picked up new head coach Butch Jones’ scheme while posting 506 total yards against Ball State. Additionally, LeFevour posted back-to-back six touchdown performances against Ball State and Army. The Chippewas finished 2007 with an 8-6 overall record and back-to-back MAC titles — with LeFevour earning MVP honors once again.

In addition to leading his team to back-to-back MAC titles last year, LeFevour finished fourth in the NCAA in total offense, posted 46 total touchdowns and 1,122 yards on the ground. LeFevour also earned MAC Offensive Player of the Year honors and was named to the All-MAC first team for the second consecutive season.

Why he’ll be holding the hardware: Heisman voters enamored with statistics will love LeFevour’s stat line in 2008. Last season, the junior quarterback finished third among quarterbacks in rushing yardage and second in rushing touchdowns. If LeFevour can duplicate those numbers once again, this quarterback could contend for the NCAA lead in total offense.

Why he’ll be left out: LeFevour’s statistics may be impressive, but the level of competition clearly isn’t on his side. The junior quarterback will rack up the yardage and touchdowns against the likes of Eastern Illinois, Ohio and Eastern Michigan — not exactly the crown jewel of defenses. However, LeFevour will have a shot to open eyes in early the year, as the Chippewas have a September 6th date against Georgia. Additionally, LeFevour won’t have many primetime television opportunities to showcase his talent to the Heisman voters.

Final Analysis: LeFevour is clearly one of the top players flying below the national radar. However, this junior quarterback figures to be a long shot to win the Heisman in 2008. Although Pennington, Leftwich and Roethlisberger were all great quarterbacks, none finished higher than fifth in Heisman Trophy voting. Expect LeFevour to have another great statistical year and another MAC Offensive Player of the Year award isn’t out of the question.

2007 STAT LINE

Other Links:

Athlon Sports' 2008 Heisman Watch
Read the Central Michigan team preview
Watch the MAC conference preview video