It’s the most prestigious individual award in all of sports, and Athlon's Heisman Watch spotlights the top 25 candidates to hoist the trophy. Missouri receiver Jeremy Maclin is next on the 2008 list, which will be released in no particular order.

Even though Jeremy Maclin burst onto the national scene in 2007, the Missouri coaching staff was excited about his potential when he participated in summer workouts before the 2006 season. Unfortunately for Maclin, he suffered a knee injury in workouts and was sidelined for the remainder of the year. However, the injury didn’t seem to slow Maclin down any last season, and defensive coordinators in the Big 12 quickly learned what a nightmare match-up this young receiver would be.

In 14 contests, Maclin grabbed 80 receptions for 1,055 yards and nine touchdowns. In the season opener against Illinois, he grabbed two receptions for 43 yards and a touchdown — which was his lowest output of the year. However, after the sluggish performance in the opener, the Kirkwood, Mo. native averaged six receptions in the final 13 games of the year.

One of the most memorable performances of the 2007 season was Maclin’s performance against Kansas State. He totaled 360 yards of total offense — a school record — and three touchdowns. Maclin’s all-around success wasn’t limited to one contest, as he averaged 12.3 yards per punt return and 24.2 on kick returns. Also, his success with reverses and rushing attempts from the receiving spot added another X-factor for defenses to plan against.

Maclin was the only player in the NCAA to score a rushing, receiving, kickoff and punt return touchdown last season. Additionally, his 2,776 all-purpose yards were a Division I-A single-season freshman record. The 6-foot-1 receiver racked up a host of post-season honors, including first-team All-American return specialist, Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year and first-team All-Big 12 by the coaches.

Why he’ll be holding the hardware: Similar to Florida’s Percy Harvin, Maclin is a true do-it-all threat. The sophomore receiver will see touches on the ground, receiving and on special teams. With many ways for this Tiger to hurt opposing defenses, he will have plenty of chances to rack up highlight reel plays and Heisman-worthy statistics. His rushing and special team totals should stay at a similar level while his receiving numbers should see a slight bump.
 
Why he’ll be left out: With quarterback Chase Daniel also boasting a strong Heisman resume, it will be difficult for two candidates from the same roster to earn enough consideration. Maclin’s biggest hurdle to overcome is his own quarterback — who he needs to succeed in order to be in this race. Additionally, a receiver has not won the Heisman since Desmond Howard took home the hardware in 1991.

Final Analysis: Missouri should have no trouble putting points on the board in 2008. Daniel is back under center and the receiving corps is strong once again, despite tight end Martin Rucker taking his game to the NFL. Maclin is one of the most explosive players in college football and reaching 2007’s statistics is very attainable. However, with Daniel also garnering serious Heisman consideration, it’s unlikely Maclin can hoist the hardware in 2008 — but don’t rule out a top 10 run.

2007 STAT LINE

Other Links:

Athlon Sports' 2008 Heisman Watch
Read the Missouri team preview
Watch the Missouri preview video