Heisman Watch: Will Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon keep momentum going?

It’s been five years since a running back has won the Heisman Trophy, but Wisconsin’s Melvin Gordon is trying to change that.

With his record-breaking performance against Nebraska last week, he definitely opened the eyes of voters and launched himself into one of the top spots for the award with Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota. Now, can he keep it up and knock down more records on his way to New York?

If he does and Mariota continues to play well, this might be one of the closest Heisman races in recent memory.

Here’s a look at Dr. Saturday’s Heisman Poll heading into Week 13:

Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin: There’s not much that can be said about Gordon’s record-breaking 408-yard performance against Nebraska last week, which was punctuated by the fact that he only played three quarters. That was Gordon’s showcase game and he made the most of it. But things don’t get easier this weekend against an Iowa defense that is allowing just 147.8 rushing yards per game.

Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon: Mariota had the week off but didn’t see his status in the Heisman race change all that much. While he is behind Wisconsin’s Melvin Gordon on our list, it’s fair to say the two are co-leaders. And not much should change for Mariota this weekend against a Colorado defense that allows 38.6 points per game. Last season, Mariota threw for five touchdowns and rushed for two more against the Buffs.

Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama: Cooper had eight catches for 88 yards and a score against Mississippi State last week that helped vault the Tide to the No. 1 ranking. Alabama plays Western Carolina this week, which could be a great statistical matchup, but probably won’t do much for Cooper’s overall Heisman standing. His next big game will come in the Iron Bowl against Auburn on Nov. 29.

Trevone Boykin, QB, TCU: While TCU’s performance might have been subpar against Kansas last week, Boykin had a good game, completing 72.2 percent of his passes for 330 yards and a touchdown. He also helped lead his team to a come-from-behind win. The Horned Frogs are off this week, but Boykin will have a tough test against an upstart Texas team on Thanksgiving.

J.T. Barrett, QB, Ohio State: Barrett has created quite a buzz in the past couple of weeks with his performances against Michigan State and Minnesota. So far this season, Barrett has been responsible for 38 touchdowns, which is an Ohio State record and the most by any player in his first 10 career games in the past 10 seasons. He’ll have a chance to add to those totals this weekend against Indiana, which is the worst team in the Big Ten. It probably won’t do much to improve his Heisman standing, but a good game will keep him in the conversation.