2008 Heisman Watch: Chase Daniel

The Big 12’s reigning offensive player of the year returns for his final season at Missouri. Chase Daniel and his teammates fell short of claiming the Big 12 title last season after a 38-17 loss to Oklahoma. Although the loss to the Sooners knocked the Tigers out of the BCS, Daniel has set the foundation for a run at the Heisman and possibly a major bowl game for this program.

The Southlake, Texas native picked up where he left off in 2006 in the 2007 season opener against Illinois. Against the Fighting Illini, he threw for 359 yards and three touchdowns. One week later, Daniel tossed five touchdowns and 330 yards against Ole Miss and threw for 401 yards and two touchdowns in a 41-6 whipping of Nebraska in October. In 14 contests, Daniel racked up an impressive 4,306 yards and 33 touchdowns (a Missouri record), along with 253 yards and four touchdowns on the ground.

For his huge 2007 season, Daniel finished fourth in the Heisman Trophy voting. His fourth-place finish represented the Tigers’ first Heisman finalist in school history. Additionally, he was a finalist for the Davey O’Brien, Walter Camp, Manning and Maxwell Awards while earning Second-Team All-America honors from Walter Camp.

Entering 2008, Daniel needs 620 passing yards to become the school’s all-time leader in career passing yardage and 4,220 total yards to break Brad Smith’s school record for most total offense in a career. His 143.80 career quarterback rating is the best in Missouri history and set a Big 12 record in 2007 with 254 passes without an interception.

Why he’ll be holding the hardware: If you like statistics, this senior quarterback is certainly among the nation’s best. After a strong fourth-place showing last season, Daniel will begin 2008 as one of the favorites to claim the Heisman Trophy. Additionally, the Tigers have a relatively favorable schedule and should be one of the top 10 teams throughout the season. If Daniel simply equals his numbers, he should be one of the favorites to take home the hardware.

Why he’ll be left out: For Daniel to win the trophy instead of finishing fourth, it will likely come down to the Big 12 title. Daniel doesn’t have many holes in his Heisman resume, but teammate and top receiver Jeremy Maclin could cut into his votes. Maclin is expected to be one of the top receivers/returners in college football this season.

Final Analysis: The Tigers have high expectations entering 2008 and as long as Daniel stays healthy, they will be in contention for a conference championship. For Daniel to take the next step, the Tigers need to win the Big 12 title and not suffer another let down against Oklahoma — if they match-up this December. Daniel is one of the leading candidates to wrestle the Heisman away from returning winner Tim Tebow and another top five finish appears likely. 

2007 STAT LINE

Other Links:

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