Syracuse Football: Here’s why Sean Tucker is a legit Heisman contender

The ongoing debate surrounding Syracuse football running back Sean Tucker lately had been centered on whether he should wear the iconic Orange number 44 (yes he should).

But recently it seems Sean Tucker isn’t just a name to watch in regards to restoring that tradition, but also maybe according to Robert Griffin III, he is worthy of Heisman Trophy consideration as well.

The above tweet from the former Heisman winner himself in 2011 at least indicates that he’s on peoples’ radar now. Oftentimes, the best way to even be considered is if someone like RGIII notices you and shares his opinions with others. His vote and his voice carry some weight when it’s time to discuss the candidates for the prestigious award.

It also doesn’t hurt that Sean Tucker leads the Atlantic Coast Conference in total rushing yards, and he is second in the country with 536 rushing yards on 83 attempts and averaging over 6 yards per carry. He’s already got 7 rushing touchdowns compared to the 4 he had all season last year, plus over 100 yards receiving and a TD that way as well.

Syracuse football running back Sean Tucker is having a fabulous 2021 season to date.

I think the improvements on the offensive line play a role in that as well but Tucker deserves a lot of the credit. Tucker reminds me very much of Syracuse football legend Joe Morris in that there are times when you see him run and think he’s about to be tackled, only for him to kick it into a higher gear and go off for a good run and possibly a touchdown.

And I think Joe Morris is a fair comparison as well when you consider last season Sean Tucker ended with him having the third most yards for a freshman behind Joe and Delone Carter, as well as second in yards per game for a freshman behind only…you guessed it…Joe Morris.

I think maybe these traits even last season made me already become a huge fan of the guy. Watching Sean Tucker play reminds me of when coaches used to say, “if you’re going to tackle that guy, you better pack a lunch because you’re going to have to put in a hard day’s work to do it.”

Ernie Davis is the last Syracuse football player to win the award, though many fans will tell you that at the very least, Jim Brown and Don McPherson deserved it as well. And in a season where many speculated about the job security of head coach Dino Babers and the future of the program, how sweet would it be to see that season end with a Heisman Trophy winner or at least a top 5 contender, a top-tier bowl game and possibly a trip to Charlotte?