The Race for the Heisman seems to be in cruise control right now. No one making any big mistakes or big moves to make any dent in the race. But as we close in on the end of the year and some big conference games and title games, the race can take a twist with a huge national TV performance.

1. Troy Smith - Smith showed he can still make people miss with his legs as well as throw the ball all over the field. He put on an exhibition for the voters as the Gophers were no match for the Buckeyes. This is his race right now to lose.

2. Steve Slaton - Slaton had the week off before the game that will define his Heisman chances for this year as well as next. The Mountaineers travel to Papa John’s Stadium to play Louisville on Thursday night, and if Slaton can have a big game he will be the front runner for the 2007 race.

3. Brady Quinn - Quinn and Notre Dame just doesn’t wow me anymore. I’m not sure if the reason is their coach complaining about where they are ranked in the polls, or the fact that they just are not as good as hyped. Quinn threw all over the Midshipmen, next up are the reeling Tar Heels of North Carolina.

4. Michael Hart - Hart had another good game against Northwestern running for 95 yards. He could have had more but the Wolverines wanted to get his backup some carries and keep Hart healthy for the pre-BCS Title game against the Buckeyes.

5. Marshawn Lynch - Lynch rested this week and was licking his lips when he saw the Oregon State running back run for over 100 yards in the Beavers’ victory against the Trojans.

6. Erik Ainge - Ainge proved he could go into a hostile stadium and win a game for the Vols. He threw for 254 yards and 2 touchdowns, making a strong statement for his campaign starting in 2007.

7. Calvin Johnson - Johnson put his catch-less week behind him and helped the Yellow Jackets take a firm grip on the ACC Coastal Division crown. He had 68 yards and a touchdown but still has to wonder what could have been if he had a competent quarterback.

8. Ray Rice - Rice had a nice night even though he got hurt. The Rutgers running back ran for 79 yards before hurting his ankle, but says he will be back in time to play Louisville in two weeks.

9. Colt Brennan - Brennan put on a clinic against the Vandals throwing for 333 yards and 5 touchdowns. It is a real shame no one gets to see this guy play.

10. Chad Henne - Henne did not have a great day statistically but what quarterback would throwing in winds that gusted up to 50 mph? Henne has a ton of leadership and is a big reason why the Wolverines are in the position to play for the title.

Honorable Mention: Ian Johnson, Colt McCoy, Pat White,