There’s little doubt that, in the minds of most people -- including eighties R&B group Atlantic Starr -- Cam Newton is the current frontrunner in the race for the 2010 Heisman Trophy.
Actually, and with apologies to LaMichael James and Kellen Moore, it would probably be a one-sided rout for the Auburn quarterback if the voting were held today.
Fortunately for anyone still holding on to Heisman hopes, there’s still a month left in the season and a lot of football left to play before votes are to be cast. One of the 900-plus individuals currently in possession of a vote, though, will be in the most unique of positions to make a judgment on Newton -- he’ll be on the opposing sideline for a game that could be one for the ages.
As the reigning Heisman winner, Mark Ingram will be allowed to vote for the award this year. As the starting running back for Alabama, Ingram will also be on the same field as Newton Nov. 26 when the Tide squares off with the Tigers in the Iron Bowl.
Speaking on the Dan Patrick Show Wednesday, Ingram was asked if he’ll use his vote on Newton.
“We’ll see what happens,” Ingram said. “We’ll see how the rest of the season plays out and who keeps playing the best football. They’re definitely playing the best football out of everybody right now.
“If he’s the best and has been the best so far, I wouldn’t have no problem. I’m a real person and I can’t hate on the man.”
If Newton continues through the remaining third of the season the way he’s played through the first two-thirds, any real person won’t be able to hate on the man when it comes to the Heisman.