Is it time to start putting Damien Harris in the Heisman conversation?
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Final Stats | Five things you learned
Saban Presser | Jalen Hurts | Damien Harris
INSTANT ANALYSIS: Alabama runs past Arkansas
TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — For the second straight week, Damien Harris was the talk of his team. The Alabama running back generated plenty of praise Saturday night after leading the Crimson Tide with 125 yards and two touchdowns on just nine carries in a 41-9 win over Arkansas.
The performance was Harris’ second straight 100-yard game and marked the first time he has topped the century mark in back-to-back games during his college career. Through seven games, the junior has rushed for 625 yards on 68 carries, an average of 9.2 yards per carry.
As far as Harris’ teammates are concerned, it’s about time those numbers get the recognition they deserve.
Despite entering the day leading the SEC in yards per carry, a stat he will undoubtedly still lead following Saturday’s games, Harris’ name has been excluded when projecting national awards.
Although, after Saturday’s performance that seems bound to change.
“I mean you see his play, he’s playing lights out every game,” Alabama offensive lineman Bradley Bozeman said. “He’s doing his best, he’s bringing everything he has to the table every game. So I wouldn’t be surprised.”
Harris ripped off a 75-yard touchdown on Alabama’s first play from scrimmage Saturday. The highlight run came a week after another 75-yard score against Texas A&M. Moments like those tick the boxes voters are looking for when they consider players for national accolades.
It might be early, but Harris for Heisman certainly has a nice ring to it. At the very least, those who see him play on a weekly basis believe he should be in the conversation.
“He should be in it,” Ridley said without hesitation when asked about Harris’ Heisman status.
Harris is a bit more humble when asked about the topic. When informed of Ridley’s comments all the running back could do was smile.
“I don’t really know how to respond to that. I mean Calvin’s a great player, he’s a great friend as well and a great teammate,” Harris said. “To hear something like that coming from a guy like that, that means a lot to me. But I’m just focused on just winning, game in and game out. Playing, doing my job, doing what I’m asked to do. Tell him I said thank you.”
Despite his modest nature, there seems to be something special about Harris this season. Last year, the former five-star recruit quietly led Alabama with 1,037 yards while running in two touchdowns on the ground. Following Saturday’s two touchdowns, Harris has more than quadrupled that number, extended his team lead to nine rushing touchdowns on the season.
Much of that is due to his ability to score on big runs like the ones he has ripped off in recent weeks. Harris said he made some changes to his diet this offseason, cutting down on his favorite snack of honey buns in order to slim down. While difficult, the results have been rewarding.
Of course, as different as his stats have been those who know Harris best say the star running back has had it all along.
“That’s the regular old Damien since we’ve been freshmen,” Ridley said. “He’s been running that ball hard like that, he’s very hard to tackle. He’s playing great football.”
It’s just now, people are finally starting to notice.
