Patrick Mahomes wants Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez considered for Heisman

Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez struck a Heisman pose Saturday after another dominant defensive performance.

Except this one was on a bigger stage. His outstanding play caught the attention of Patrick Mahomes. And if the former NFL MVP has a say in the matter, the celebration might be more than just a joke.

The former Red Raider quarterback was in attendance as No. 9 Texas Tech rolled past previously unbeaten No. 8 BYU, 29-7. After the game, Mahomes took to social media with a message that lit up college football. “Get him to New York! @HeismanTrophy," Mahomes wrote. 

Get him to New York! @HeismanTrophy https://t.co/KGk6Gs0Lgy

Rodriguez, a 6-foot-1, 235-pound defensive machine with a trademark mustache has made a name for himself. The Virginia transfer finished with 14 tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery. The pick was his third of the season and came off a tipped pass to himself in the third quarter. That's when he his the statue pose that send Jones AT&T Stadium into a frenzy.

“My guys, they wanted me to hit it,” Rodriguez said. “Just a rush of adrenaline.” It’s been that kind of season for Rodriguez, who now leads the FBS with seven forced fumbles.

Texas Tech coach Joey McGuire has no problem joining Mahomes in the campaign. “The Heisman is given to the best football player and not the best quarterback,” McGuire said. “Jacob is as elite as anybody in the country.”

Rodriguez said the Heisman talk with McGuire happens “a lot,” but he’s focused on keeping Texas Tech’s playoff hopes alive. 

The Red Raiders (9-1, 6-1 Big 12) held BYU to just 255 total yards, which is half of their season average. Whether or not Rodriguez makes it to New York or not, this puts another defensive impact player on the minds of voters in the final weeks. 

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