2008 Heisman Watch: DeMarco Murray

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. Oklahoma running back DeMarco Murray is next on the 2008 list, which will be released in no particular order.

Oklahoma’s athletic center in Norman may have to clear a little room in the trophy case before DeMarco Murray finishes his career in crimson and cream. As a redshirt freshman last year, he established himself as one of the most electrifying players in the Big 12, and the Sooners have even bigger things in mind for 2008.

Last season, Murray averaged a healthy 6 yards per carry, totaling 764 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns while catching 14 passes for 60 yards. He also spent time on special teams and averaged 29.3 yards per return and totaled two kickoff returns for touchdowns. His 29.3 yards per return was seventh in the NCAA and first in the Big 12.

Since he was splitting time with Allen Patrick and Chris Brown, Murray only registered 127 carries. However, he made the most of every opportunity he was on the field. In the season opener against North Texas, he sliced the Mean Green defense for five touchdowns and 87 yards. In the 28-21 victory over Texas, he notched 128 yards and a score.

Murray’s 2007 resume could’ve been more impressive had he not suffered a dislocated kneecap against Texas Tech. The injury cost him three games and a chance to rush for over 1,000 yards. All signs indicate Murray has suffered no setbacks in his recovery and should be 100 percent when the season kicks off.

Why he’ll be holding the hardware: Did Tim Tebow’s Heisman victory as a sophomore open the door for more younger players like Murray to win? Possibly. Murray is one of the most talented running backs in the NCAA and barring injury, should have no trouble topping his numbers from last year. Even in a backup role, he totaled 13 touchdowns and could approach the 15-20 mark with more carries. The Sooners should be in the national title race all year, so he should have no trouble emerging as a frontrunner if he has a big season.

Why he’ll be left out: Although the knee injury doesn’t appear to be an issue, the Sooners could play things safe early in the year. The Sooners open with Chattanooga, but face Cincinnati and Washington in their next two games. If Murray sees a limited workload in those contests, he will need a late rally to win the Heisman. Even though Murray has all of the tools to rush for well over 1,000 yards this year, backup Chris Brown is a key part of this team and will see over 150 carries. Quarterback Sam Bradford is also one of the top 15 Heisman candidates this year and he could cut into Murray’s campaign.

Final Analysis: Three of the Sooners’ four Heisman winners have been running backs. Can Murray make it number four? Although he should easily top his numbers from last year, look for this Sooner to mount a more serious Heisman run in 2009.

2007 STAT LINE

Other Links:

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