2013 Heisman Trophy: 5 Reasons Why Alabama QB AJ McCarron Will Win

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5. He’s Not a Freshman

Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports

McCarron is, in fact, a senior. Last year, the 78th Heisman Trophy was awarded to a freshman for the first time in the award’s history. Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel promptly thanked the voters and the Heisman Trust by displaying a gross lack of maturity over several embarrassing offseason incidents. It’s hard to believe that the voters would take a chance on naming another freshman -- namely Florida State’s Jameis Winston -- after the events of last year cast serious doubt upon whether someone so young can handle it.

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4. Squeaky Clean Image

John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Unlike Winston and Manziel, McCarron’s name has never been uttered as part of a controversy. It is true that Winston will not be charged with sexual assault by the Florida State Attorney’s office, and it is certainly not the place of the media or Heisman voters to make judgments regarding his alleged crimes. However, the unfortunate fact remains that even the mention of someone’s name in concert with controversy often reflects poorly on that individual. PR nightmares involving McCarron are unprecedented, and it is unlikely that any will emerge down the road (e.g. Reggie Bush).

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3. He's a Winner

John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

The mission statement doesn't say anything about winning football games, but it does talk about the pursuit of excellence with integrity. During his time as a starter, McCarron has led the Crimson Tide to a 36-3 record. He calmly and consistently leads the offense and effectively brings out the best in his talented teammates. He conducts himself with professionalism in the media, and he maintains that football is his only focus.

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2. Solid, though not Gaudy, Stats

John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The argument for Winston seems to rely heavily on the word “stats,” an instance of which is noticeably absent from the mission statement. However, McCarron’s 2013 stats are indicative of his consistency and excellence. He has completed 207-of-306 passes for a total of 2676 yards and a 67.6 completion percentage on the year with 26 touchdowns and five interceptions. It’s telling that Winston has more completions (237-of-349) and total passing yards (3820) yet sports an almost identical completion percentage at 67.9. The fact that Florida State was able to dramatically outscore weaker ACC opponents while Alabama once again competed in the nation’s strongest conference shouldn't have a dramatic effect on McCarron’s Heisman chances.

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1. He Embodies the Mission of the Heisman Trust

John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The Heisman Trust identifies that the trophy should symbolize the fostering of goodwill and community service. The last week in November, McCarron was named the SEC Community Service Team Player of the Week. The winner should also combine great ability with diligence, perseverance and hard work. No quarterback wins 36 games and two national championships as a starter without all of those qualities. McCarron would make the Heisman Trust proud.