A Freshman Front-runner

HEISMAN WATCH

Halfway through the season, here are the leading candidates.

• Adrian Peterson, Fr., RB, Oklahoma (119 carries, 771 yards, 6 TDs)

After shredding Texas for 225 yards, he has emerged as the leading candidate. No freshman has ever won the Heisman, but Peterson is the nation's best player.

• Kyle Orton, Sr., QB, Purdue (119 for 172, 1,642 yards, 18 TDs)

Orton has put up PlayStation-like numbers, but tough games against Wisconsin and Michigan will make or break his season.

• Reggie Bush, Soph., RB-KR, USC (197.8 total yards per game, 7 TDs)

He may be the most explosive player in the nation, but he has to share carries with LenDale White and will split votes with Matt Leinart.