“Were” is correct…go look up the use of the subjunctive case in a grammar book. Greatly is an adverb that describes how something is done..it was done greatly. Two fewer is absolutely correct…it’s the opposite of two more.

#HeIsManti Go Irish!

I would more than likely vomit if Manziel won the Heisman, so don’t get me wrong. I’m not trying to make a case for him. And every team with a percieved weaker secondary than linebackers gets attacked at the edge, that is called football. And you can apply what you said about Manziel not doing everything on his own to Te’o, last time I looked Shembo had some pretty good stats himself.

There was also a point made in an earlier comment that Notre Dame forced a lot 3 and outs and it was difficult to get tackle stats up when the opposing team’s offense was on the bench. Of the five defenses ranked ahead of ND, three of them have defended the same amount or fewer plays than Notre Dame’s defense, and they each have a linebacker with comparable stats. What they don’t have is a personal tragedy and an undefeated team.

I think saying he is the only logical choice is a bit strong.

@Brian

Here’s a straight-forward stat: ZERO LOSES.

Tackles aren’t a straight-forward stat themselves. In fact, having too many might highlight issues. For instance: http://www.herloyalsons.com/blog/2010/09/27/catch-21-when-a-ton-of-tackles-is-a-problem/

Plus, opponents consistently attack our edge, attempt to test our young secondary. Unlike Manziel, Te’o can’t have every play run through him.

On top of all that, QB doesn’t do everything on his own. The skill players around him help him with this stats. But Te’o gets punished because he has good defenders around him making plays as well? That makes sense.

Best player on the best defense. Without him, ND isn’t undefeated. Period.

My point is there are players with comparable and even better stats, they just don’t have the intangibles or the tear jerking story to merit all the press he gets. Granted he is the anchor and emotional leader of an amazing defense. I’m just not buying that he is the best college player in the country. The stats are pretty straightforward, no circles needed.

Going in circles now. See above comments. Manti has 20% of the tackles on the #1 ranked D. When you force the opposing team to 3 and out there are fewer opportunities to make tackles.

Manti’s stats up to date…compared to all FBS linebackers

ranks 48th in solo tackles
ranks 55th in assisted tackles
ranks 174th in tackles for loss
and yes his interception stats are the only ones that are impressive, I understand his leadership abilities, I understand his team is undefeated, but I’ve always thought of the Heisman as an individual award for the best player in the country…

Sounding like some kinda T-sip or something. Don’t worry, you will gag ’em next time John boy.

If you are going to troll try harder.

The majority of the post deals specifically with on-field performance. And as I said to your previous comment below, Manti has excelled in the biggest moments. Manziel hasn’t.

The off field stuff should be the cherry on top to make this decision a no-brainer for voters.

Hey NDTex,

I think the solution to this is to create a new award – the “Heismanatarian Award.”

This criteria do not include any evaluation of on field performance or statistical comparisons.

(1) You have to be on the #1 Team (Notice a team not individual evaluation)
(2) Then the coach, fans, and players of the #1 Team evaluate who they think is their Team’s MVP
(3)You get extra points if you have a great off field story (i.e. Family adversity, you cure cancer, create a longer lasting light bulb … whatever)

Problem solved!

Te’o is a shoe in for the new HEISMANATARIAN.