NFL analyst predicts a running back will win this year's Heisman Trophy

He's going against the grain.

Of the 17 Heisman trophy winners of the 21st century, 14 of them have been quarterbacks. Entering the 2017 season, the favorites to win the award are all from the quarterback position.

Sam Darnold, Baker Mayfield, Lamar Jackson and J.T. Barrett are the current betting favorites to win the prestigious award, but NFL.com analyst Charles Davis believes a running back will take home the trophy this season.

A panel of NFL.com writers made bold predictions for the 2017 college football season, and Charles Davis predicted that Penn State running back Saquon Barkley will win the Heisman this year.

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"The runner I believe in most plays for Penn State, and his name is Saquon Barkley," Davis said. "He puts the time in at the weight room, and is supremely conditioned. He runs with power, speed and excellent vision. He can be a factor in the passing game, but he's at his best when he "eats" carries, and wears defenses down.

"My fearless prediction for him? He runs his way to postseason All-America status, powers his Nittany Lions to another successful season, and he's my choice to walk away with this year's Heisman Trophy, and a bunch of other hardware."

Barkley rushed for 1,496 yards and 18 touchdowns as a sophomore in 2016, and he also recorded 402 receiving yards and four touchdowns.

The Nittany Lions are expected to contend for a national title this season, and Barkley will be the focal point of their offense.

(h/t NFL.com)