Washington quarterback Michael Penix has been named to PFF’s “Way too early 2023 Heisman Candidate”.  Others contenders on the list include current Heisman-winner Caleb Williams of USC, and Oregon Ducks QB Bo Nix who has announced his return for the 2023 season.  Penix and Nix were eligible for the NFL draft but chose to return for another season.

PFF noted Penix’s flare for the dramatic with explosive plays saying the following:

“Michael Penix Jr. led college football in 2022 with 4,354 passing yards. The junior was also one of the best in the country at taking care of the football. His 1.3% turnover-worthy play rate ranked fifth lowest,” PFF said.

The Cincinnati-based national scouting service pointed out Penix’s discipline when it comes to decision-making.

“He was far from conservative. Penix’s 25 big-time throws were tied for the fourth-most in the Power Five. He led the Huskies to a 10-2 record this season, their best in five years. Another season like this could have Penix at the top of the Heisman conversation.”

Along the way Penix had two receivers, Rome Odunze and Jalen McMillan finish with over 1,000 yards receiving along with what some are calling the throw of the year to Ja’Lynn Polk:

This past season Washington’s signal-caller finished 8th in Heisman balloting, despite leading the nation’s number 1 passing attack.

Penix’s and 9 other Heisman contenders can be found in PFF’s full release.