Heisman finalists: Jackson, Watson, Peppers, 2 Sooners
The Atlantic Coast Conference quarterbacks who dueled in one of the best games of the college football season were named Heisman finalists Monday, along with Michigan's versatile star Jabrill Peppers and Oklahoma teammates Baker Mayfield and Dede Westbrook.
Peppers is the first defensive player to be a Heisman finalists since Notre Dame linebacker Manti Teo was a distant runner-up to Johnny Manziel in 2012.
The last player to win the Heisman after his team lost its final two games was Notre Dame's Tim Brown in 1987.
Watson threw three touchdown passes and ran for two scores in a 42-35 victory against Virginia Tech to seal a spot in the College Football Playoff.
The raw numbers still favor Jackson, who is second in the nation in total yards per game (410.7) and has accounted for 51 touchdowns (21 rushing TDs and 30 TD passes) with 13 turnovers (nine INTs and four lost fumbles) in 12 games.
Westbrook has 74 catches for 1,465 yards and 16 touchdowns and has more receptions covering at least 20 yards (26) than any receiver in the country.
Alabama defensive lineman Jonathan Allen, Florida State running back Dalvin Cook and Washington quarterback Jake Browning were among those who were considered potential finalists that did not draw enough support to get an invitation to New York.