Doug Flutie is in the same tough spot as any other Heisman Trophy voter.
Flutie sees the on-field brilliance with defending Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston, who is trying to become the first two-time winner since Ohio State’s Archie Griffin (1974-75). Flutie, who won the Heisman Trophy in 1984, sees the biggest problem with that campaign.
"I think it will very much affect his run for the Heisman," Flutie told Sporting News this week. "There are a percentage of guys that will not vote for him because of it."
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Winston has a disciplinary hearing scheduled for Dec. 1 to determine if Winston violated the code of conduct at the university, including two sections for sexual misconduct and two for endangerment. He served a one-game suspension earlier this year for yelling a vulgar phrase at the student union.
All that clouds a season in which Winston has led Florida State to a 10-0 record and 26-game win streak. Winston’s numbers are down from last season; he has 18 TDs and 12 interceptions. Flutie, however, said Winston has been better on the field this season.
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"Although this year's numbers aren't what they were a year ago, I honestly believe he's done more for that team because he's doing more," Flutie said. "He's willing and dealing. That’s what has made him great. He’s carried the weight of the team on his shoulders."
It’s somewhat ironic that on the 30th anniversary of Flutie’s Hail Mary against Miami that Boston College is playing No. 1 Florida State on the road this weekend. That’s another reason Flutie said Winston and Florida State’s efforts are admirable this season.
"When they play a team they are getting their best performance of the year," Flutie said. "It’s only going to get tougher each week."
