Only four schools have more Heisman winners than Alabama. Alongside its 12 national championships, the college has amassed four Heisman winners. The latest among the lot is quarterback Bryce Young, who scooped the trophy in 2021.
Despite the rich history and reputation, the first Alabama winner didn’t emerge until Nick Saban became head coach. After Mark Ingram Jr won the trophy in 2009, several Alabama players have won this prestigious award after leaving an indelible mark on the game. Let’s take a look at the Crimson Tide’s Heisman history.
Mark Ingram (2009)
Mark Ingram is forever in Alabama’s history as the first Heisman Winner from the school. He played as a running back and won the Heisman Trophy following an undefeated season and national championship. Even as a sophomore, the running back’s 2009 season was spectacular. 17 touchdowns and 1658 yards were enough to bestow him the award.
Ingram’s standout attribute was the versatility and ability to make big plays in crucial moments. He particularly stood out against top competition. For instance, he scored a 246-yard game against South Carolina and a 113-yard, 3-touchdown performance against Floria in the SEC Championship Game. These performances placed Ingram as the frontrunner for the award.
Derrick Henry (2015)
Six years after their first Heisman Winner, Derrick Henry broke the drought for Alabama. The running back catalyzed the Tide’s national championship under coach Saban. He shattered records with an astounding 2219 yards and 28 touchdowns in one of the most dominant seasons in college football history.
Henry’s standout attributes were his power and stamina. These were on full display throughout the season, for example, when he registered 100 or more rushing yards in 10 consecutive games. Henry’s candidature for the Heisman Trophy came to the fold later in the season. For example, he rushed for 189 yards and scored a touchdown in the SEC Championship Game against Auburn, alongside 46 carriers for 271 yards. As a result, he won the trophy in a landslide.
DeVonta Smith (2020)
Alabama had to wait five more years before they got another Heisman winner, this time in the name of DeVonta Smith. He became the first wide receiver in 30 years to win the Heisman Trophy,
Smith played wide receiver, helping Alabama to its seventh national championship under coach Saban. During this season, Smith registered 117 catches for 1856 yards and 23 touchdowns. Nobody beat him in all three categories.
He had a remarkable season, showcasing his talent and explosive nature. You could see his ability to make game-changing plays week after week. In one game against Ohio State, Smith had a remarkable first half with 12 receptions and 3 touchdowns for 215 yards. These performances were enough to place him as a candidate for the Heisman Trophy. His win was also in a landslide despite being a wide receiver, mainly because of his impact on the game throughout the season.
Bryce Young (2021)
Not long after, Bryce Young made the list of Alabama Heisman Trophy Winners. As a quarterback, Bryce Young secured the SEC championships for the Crimson Tide with his 4322 passing yards and 43 touchdowns.
He continued Alabama’s recent Heisman success while becoming the first quarterback in the school’s history to do so. His poise and accuracy in leading an offense under pressure were crucial to his season and win. During the 2021 season, Young threw for 4872 yards and 47 touchdowns and broke several records for the Tides.
The signature moment that cemented Young’s claim for the Heisman trophy came in the Iron Bowl against Auburn. He orchestrated a game-tying drive that sent a game they were trailing by 10 points into overtime. Eventually, Alabama secured the win. His other outstanding performance came in the SEC Championship Game against Georgia, throwing 421 yards and 3 touchdowns. For many people, Young was the best player in college football that year.
Bottom Line
Four Heismann winners for Alabama have elevated the football program’s status and helped attract top talent. These Heisman winners add to Alabama’s rich history and showcase its ability to produce elite athletes. It’s heartwarming that all these Heisman winners have transitioned into successful NFL careers.
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