Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett second in 2017 Heisman odds

J.T. Barrett didn’t have his best year in 2016. Whether you want to blame coaching, his mechanics, the play of the offensive line, wideouts, or something else, Barrett’s statistical output declined compared to his Top 5 Heisman finish worthy performance in 2014, and Ohio State’s offense, especially the passing game, struggled at times.

But not everybody has lost confidence in Ohio State’s quarterback. According to new odds just released by Bovada, Barrett actually has the best odds to win the 2017 Heisman Trophy.

Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield leads the field, with 11/2 odds, with Barrett at second at 6/1. Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson, who won the award in 2016, is third, at 7/1. The full list can be found below:

Odds to Win the 2017 Heisman Trophy

Baker Mayfield (QB Oklahoma) 11/2

JT Barrett (QB Ohio State) 6/1

Lamar Jackson (QB Louisville) 7/1

Sam Darnold (QB USC) 9/1

Saquon Barkley (RB Penn State) 10/1

Jake Browning (QB Washington) 10/1

Trace McSorley (QB Penn State) 10/1

Deondre Francois (QB Florida State) 12/1

Josh Rosen (QB UCLA) 12/1

Mason Rudolph (QB Oklahoma State) 12/1

Jalen Hurts (QB Alabama) 12/1

Derrius Grice (RB LSU) 15/1

Bo Scarbrough (RB Alabama) 15/1

Nick Fitzgerald (QB Mississippi State) 22/1

Nick Chubb (RB Georgia) 25/1

Kamryn Pettway (RB Auburn) 25/1

Shane Buechele (QB Texas) 35/1

Luke Falk (QB Washington State) 35/1

There’s an argument to be made here, as Ohio State returns the bulk of their offense from last season, and now will work with former Indiana head coach and well-regarded offensive mind Kevin Wilson. Plus, the Buckeyes should have a very strong team next season. But others, like Derrius Guice and Saquon Barkley, will make a Heisman run quite a challenge.

Here’s hoping Bovada’s right and Barrett is able to return to form in 2017.