Kirk Herbstreit pushes for defensive Heisman buzz

Kirk Herbstreit wants the Heisman Trophy conversation to look beyond quarterbacks.

During an appearance Monday on Ryen Russillo’s podcast, the longtime ESPN analyst named several leading contender, including the obvious frontrunners Ohio State’s Julian Sayin and Alabama’s Ty Simpson.

However, he quickly turned attention to the other side of the ball. Herbstreit singled out Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez as a defensive player worthy of Heisman consideration.

“If you’re looking for a defensive player, (Rodriguez) at Texas Tech the linebacker you watch that kid play much?” Herbstreit asked. Russillo responded by noting Rodriguez’s staggering production with nearly a forced fumble in every game. 

“That guy makes a ton of plays,” Herbstreit said. “He’s playing as well as anybody, I think, all year.”

Rodriguez is the heart of a Texas Tech defense that has powered the Red Raiders into Big 12 title contention. He has emerged as one of the most disruptive defenders in the nation.

Not to mention, Rodriguez’s stats tells a story. He has 74 tackles, a sack, seven forced fumbles, two interceptions, and a touchdown. 

Herbstreit acknowledged that defensive players rarely gain traction in the Heisman race, but believes Rodriguez’s dominance warrants attention. “It’s fun to be like, ‘Where’s that guy? Where’s No. 10? What’s that guy going to do today?’” he said.

With Tech continuing to climb the rankings, Rodriguez could force voters to rethink what a true Heisman candidate looks like.

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