ESPN Ranks Rudolph Fifth in Heisman Race After Week 1

Mason Rudolph’s season debut against Tulsa went off without a hitch, as the senior quarterback tossed for 303 yards and notched the second highest QBR nationally on opening weekend.

Rudolph’s performance — along with his team’s dominating debut against Tulsa — has already thrust him into the Heisman conversation early this season after OSU launched a not-so-subtle campaign this summer. According to ESPN, QB1 ranks No. 5 on the Heisman watch list through week 1, behind Josh Rosen, Baker Mayfield, Lamar Jackson and Saquon Barkley.

Here’s what ESPN said of his week 1 performance that has earned him national buzz.

Rudolph announced himself by turning in the second-highest QBR in Week 1 (94.7). He accounted for 311 total yards, four touchdowns and only missed his target on four throws. [ESPN]

Winning big and notching big numbers against Tulsa is one thing, but doing it against tougher competition is another. Unfortunately for Rudolph, his next opponent, South Alabama, isn’t exactly the showcase game needed to maintain national relevance. But if he can put up efficient numbers and prove his worth as a Heisman contender through this week, games against Pitt, TCU and Texas Tech in the following weeks could give him the springboard he needs to make headway on the list and among national opinion.

Last season, Lamar Jackson used a fast start to make his Heisman case before fading as the season closed. Perhaps Rudolph can take the same approach with a fairly open schedule before Big 12 play ramps up on Sep. 23.