A fast start can go a long way toward winning a Heisman, although finishing strong can make up for it if you don’t.
Here’s a look at the Heisman-winning running backs with the most rushing yardage after five games, as well as those with the fewest. (Note: Only running backs in the two-platoon era (post-1964) are included here, as most backs prior to this era also played on the defensive side of the ball, thus limiting their production capability on offense).
Most Rushing Yards After 5 Games
YR | Name | Yards | Regular Season Total |
---|---|---|---|
1981 | Marcus Allen | 1,136 | 2,342 |
1998 | Ricky Williams | 1,086 | 2,124 |
1988 | Barry Sanders | 1,002 | 2,628 |
1985 | Bo Jackson | 991 | 1,786 |
1968 | O.J. Simpson | 980 | 1,709 |
1994 | Rashaan Salaam | 893 | 2,055 |
1965 | Mike Garrett | 852 | 1,440 |
1999 | Ron Dayne | 773 | 1,834 |
1983 | Mike Rozier | 759 | 2,148 |
1995 | Eddie George | 745 | 1,826 |
Fewest Rushing Yards After 5 Games
YR | Name | Yards | Regular Season Total |
---|---|---|---|
2009 | Mark Ingram | 487 | 1,542 |
1978 | Billy Sims | 554 | 1,762 |
2015 | Derrick Henry | 570 | 1,986 |
1973 | John Cappelletti | 606 | 1,522 |
1969 | Steve Owens | 633 | 1,523 |
1982 | Herschel Walker | 651 | 1,752 |
1976 | Tony Dorsett | 665 | 1,976 |
1975 | Archie Griffin | 673 | 1,357 |
1977 | Earl Campbell | 686 | 1,744 |
1974 | Archie Griffin | 731 | 1,620 |