The past few seasons, there has been a strong correlation between passer efficiency rating and the Heisman. While many observers of college football look at the headline numbers for a quarterback, like yards and touchdowns, the passer rating seems to be a better indicator of overall Heisman worthiness.
Here are the passer ratings of recent Heisman winners (and finalists) and where they ranked nationally:
2011
Robert Griffin III — 189.47/2nd
Andrew Luck — 169.68/5th
2010
Cameron Newton — 182.05/2nd
Andrew Luck — 170.03/3rd
Kellen Moore — 182.64/1st
2009
Tim Tebow — 164.17/1st
Colt McCoy — 147.41/16th
2008
Sam Bradford — 180.84/1st
Colt McCoy — 173.74/3rd
Tim Tebow — 172.38/4th
2007
Tim Tebow — 172.47/2nd
Colt Brennan — 159.84/4th
As you can see, the past four quarterbacks to win the Heisman finished either first or second nationally in passing efficiency, with an average rating of 181.20. Other Heisman finalists were in the top five of the rankings.
It just so happens that Collin Klein (currently 2nd nationally), Geno Smith (4th) and AJ McCarron (1st) are all in that that wheelhouse.
Coincidence?
[...] per pass attempt (9.9) and the second highest passer rating (175.73, the latter being a strong Heisman indicator). On the ground has has rushed for 16 touchdowns, second most in the nation (by any position). At [...]