Jord is back with his leading contenders for the 2021 Heisman Trophy award. Next up is North Carolina Tar Hells QB, Sam Howell. 

Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina Tar Heels
Junior, 6” 1’, 225 lbs

Sam Howell is outstanding at the quarterback position, and is a deserved candidate for the 2021 Heisman Trophy. Howell has thrown for over 3,500 yards and over 30 touchdowns in his Freshman and Sophomore campaigns. He is competing at the top of the market with Spencer Rattler to be drafted first overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, he is sitting about 5th or 6th in the 2021 Heisman Trophy betting stakes. There are many reasons for that, which will be covered in this article. Regardless, a lot of people are expecting a big year from Sam Howell.

Final chapter in Carolina

The assumption is that Sam Howell will be heading for the 2022 NFL Draft if this season goes to plan. Therefore, this will be his last chance to pick up a Heisman Trophy. He has enjoyed two excellent seasons on a personal level. If he does want to hear his name mentioned alongside past winners, then he might just have to up his game that bit more. He certainly has the skills to do that. Sam Howell could arguably be the best QB in the country, but sometimes no matter how well you play, other factors can hold you back.

Can’t do it alone

Sam Howell has been a tremendous QB for the Tar Heels. If he hadn’t been, he wouldn’t be in the running for the 2021 Heisman Trophy. He has also had some great talent around him. RB pair Javonte Williams and Michael Carter alongside receivers Dyami Brown and Dazz Newsome have all now left for the NFL. Where does that leave Howell? Well, he has a 6′ 3″ receiver in Beau Corrales and a lightning fast Josh Downs in 2021. Both guys showcased the ability to be the main guys in small doses last season. Dyami’s younger brother Khafre Brown has the potential to see some action too. The receiver and Tight End room are looking good, but are unknown quantities. The running back committee is a concern. Tennessee transfer Ty Chandler looks like the number 1 RB. Howell will find his guys, they just need to finish off the plays. He will need help from his weapons if he is to win the 2021 Heisman Trophy.

The Verdict

We all have seen what Sam Howell is capable of in his first two seasons with the Tar Heels. We have also seen many talented college QBs in the past become great in the NFL, without getting close to the Heisman Trophy. Howell’s name could potentially fall with the rest of those also-rans made superstars. The ACC is a tough conference, but if Howell and North Carolina can put up a top showing against the higher quality teams they face, then he might prove the doubters wrong.
History is stacked against the Tar Heels. They have never had a winner of the award, and last had a finalist in the 1940s. It will take an historic year if Sam Howell is to win the 2021 Heisman Trophy.