Ryan Mallett QB, Arkansas

Buzz: If anyone wondered why Mallett should be considered for the Heisman, just watch the last 30 seconds of the Arkansas- Georgia game. With his team seemingly on the ropes, Mallett tossed a 40-yard game-winning touchdown pass.

Up next: vs. No. 1 Alabama, Saturday.

Terrelle Pryor, QB, Ohio State

Buzz: The maturation of Pryor is evident this season. The junior has cut down on turnovers and is making better decisions in the pocket. He has thrown for 715 yards and 6 TDs and rushed for 165 yards and 2 TDs.

Up next: vs. Eastern Michigan, Saturday.

Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State

Buzz: Watching Moore lead the Broncos' offense reminds you of watching Peyton Manning. He almost wills his team to win. If Boise State is going to have any shot of playing in the BCS title game, it's because of Moore.

Up next: vs. Oregon State, Saturday.

Denard Robinson, QB, Michigan

Buzz: Virtually an afterthought before the season, Robinson has become college football's flavor of the month in the Heisman race. He leads the nation in total offense thanks to his rushing and passing ability.

Up next: vs. Bowling Green, Saturday.

LaMichael James, RB, Oregon

Buzz: After sitting out the first game because of a suspension, James has played like a man possessed. His 72-yard TD run against Tennessee in Week 2 became a YouTube sensation. It helps that he plays on the No. 1 scoring offense in the country.

Up next: at Arizona State, Saturday.

Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

Buzz: Following the likes of Jim Plunkett and John Elway, Luck continues to impress for the Cardinal. He has played mistake-free football (10 TD passes to no interceptions), helping Stanford to a 3-0 start.

Up next: at Notre Dame, Saturday.

Taylor Martinez, QB, Nebraska

Buzz: He may be a redshirt freshman, but Martinez hasn't played like one. His performance in the Cornhuskers' 56-21 victory over Washington solidified his spot in the Heisman watch.

Up next: vs. South Dakota State, Saturday.

mmurschel@tribune.com