Its becoming increasingly apparent that it won't happen, but Montee Ball absolutely deserves to be invited to New York City on December 10, 2011.
Through 12 games, Ball has amassed 1870 total yards and 34 touchdowns. That's right, 34 touchdowns, the 2nd most in the history of the Division I Football Bowl Subdivision.
As of this writing, Ball's 1622 rushing yards trail only WKU SR Bobby Rainey (1695), on 121 less carries than Rainey. For comparison sake, Trent Richardson, possibly the Heisman frontrunner, has 1583 rushing yards and 23 TDs.
So far this season, Ball's lowest yardage output has been 109 yards (against SD State), and he hasn't scored less than 2 TDs in any game.
Ball isn't just racking up big numbers against inferior opponents. Against teams ranked in the top 10 in yards per game allowed* (MSU, ILL, PSU) Ball has rushed for 115, 224, and 156. In the Badgers' other big games (NEB, and @OSU), Ball has performed well, combining for 236 rushing yards, 30 receiving yards, and 6 TDs.
Now for Ball's biggest obstacle standing between him and an invite to the Heisman Trophy Ceremony: his offensive line. However, this UW offensive line was charged with replacing two 2010 All Americans, including 2010 Outland Trophy winner Gabe Carimi.
Alabama's Trent Richardson is also the beneficiary of playing behind a great offensive line, as 3 of his teammates were named to the 2011 preseason All-SEC team, including 2010 All American Barrett Jones.
The point is, Montee Ball isn't the only great running back benefitting from a dominant offensive line.
If not for the back-to-back Hail Mary losses to Michigan State and Ohio State, Wisconsin is on track for a BCS National Championship Game appearance and Ball is the frontrunner for the Heisman.
*As of Nov. 20
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