Manti Te’o (Photo Credit: Getty Images, By: Jonathan Daniel)
(WSCR) While the Heisman Trophy more often than not is awarded to the nation’s top offensive player, Notre Dame head football coach Brian Kelly isn’t so sure that should be the case this year.
Senior linebacker Manti Te’o is making a case for the Heisman with his 38 tackles, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries en route to a 4-0 start for the Irish.
“What is the definition of a Heisman Trophy candidate?” Kelly told the Chicago Tribune. “If you go with he has to be a quarterback or an offensive player, well, I don’t think (Te’o) plays on offense.
“But if you’re looking for one of the best, if not the best college football players that impacts your program…You’re also judged by how you impact your team and what you do on the defensive side of the ball. So Heisman Trophy, MVP, top collegiate player, we think he fits those categories.”
