2023 Heisman Trophy: QB Jayden Daniels wins prestigious accolade to join Joe Burrow in LSU history books

As the NFL regular season approaches its culmination, anticipation builds not only for the impending showdowns but also for the prospect of the 2024 NFL draft. Amidst the array of potential picks, LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels has seized the spotlight, emerging as a pivotal figure in the dreams of LSU faithful to draw parallels to his predecessor, the legendary Joe Burrow.

While draft declarations unfold, including standout prospects like Breden Rice, the son of Hall of Famer Jerry Rice, Daniels has etched his name into the hallowed pages of LSU history.

Jayden Daniels wins 2023 Heisman Trophy

Jayden Daniels has emerged as the victor of the coveted 2023 Heisman Trophy, securing his place as college football’s premier individual performer. Transcending expectations after his transfer from Arizona State to LSU in 2022, Daniels claimed the Heisman with an impressive 503 first-place votes and a total of 2,029 points.

In this race, he outshines other finalists Bo Nix, Michael Penix Jr., and Marvin Harrison Jr. The announcement brought unbridled joy to Daniels, who described the achievement as a “dream come true.”

Despite rumors suggesting Harrison, who astonished his fans with a “silencer” celebration, might clinch the prize, the LSU starter remained composed during his speech, expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to his journey, from the offensive line to the groundskeepers and cafeteria workers at Tigers Stadium.

“This is a dream come true. I want to first give thanks to God for all the glory. He’s my rock. He’s my savior. He blessed me with the talents and ability to get here. All the special people here to develop these skills.”

Acknowledging his competitors, Daniels highlighted the camaraderie and their efforts to grab the honor as well.

“To Bo, Mike, and Marvin, you guys are amazing. I enjoy watching y’all, but the competition is never over. I look forward to seeing you guys on Sundays.”

LSU’s regular season concluded with a commendable 9-3 record, and Daniels emerged as college football’s most dangerous dual-threat quarterback, igniting talks of a promising NFL future. Meanwhile, his fellow contenders had remarkable seasons—Penix leading the Huskies to a flawless 13-0 record, Nix steering Oregon to an 11-2 mark, and Harrison displaying versatility with impressive receiving and rushing stats.

Jayden Daniels joins Joe Burrow as second QB to win Heisman Trophy

With the honor, Jayden Daniels has etched his name in the annals of LSU history by becoming the third player from the university to clinch the prestigious Heisman Trophy. Notably, he follows in the footsteps of Joe Burrow (2019) and Billy Cannon (1959), marking LSU’s continued dominance in producing Heisman-worthy talents.

Standing tall as the second quarterback after Burrow to grasp this esteemed honor, Daniels also joins the exclusive league of quarterbacks who’ve secured the Heisman after transferring.

Daniels’ transformative impact on the LSU Tigers was evident in the 2022 season, guiding them to a commendable 10-4 record after transferring from Arizona State. Nevertheless, it was in the 2023 season that he truly dazzled, throwing for an impressive 3,812 yards and securing the top spot in FBS with 40 touchdowns.

His prowess extended beyond the passing game, boasting a leading 8.4-yard rush average in the FBS and accumulating 613 rushing yards with five touchdowns in the final four regular-season games.

As LSU gears up to face Wisconsin in the ReliaQuest Bowl on January 1, a lingering question surrounds Daniels’ potential participation, as per a report by AP News. Already, his fans are in suspense to see his last stint as an LSU player before the culmination of his college career.

What’s your opinion on the Heisman Trophy winner of this season? Tell us what you think in the comments.