Collin Klein [QB - Kansas State] Klein needed a decisive move to pass Geno Smith. Setting career highs in passing yards and total touchdowns, as Smith faltered in the same game, was just that. In a weak field, his lead is overwhelming.

Manti Te’o [LB - Notre Dame] Te’o moves up to the runner up position with Smith faltering. His narrative is strong and compelling. He’s a lock to reach the podium, as long as Notre Dame’s defense keeps performing.

A.J. McCarron [QB - Alabama] It’s hard isolating McCarron’s success from his supporting cast. Others would love to play with his defense, offensive line and running game. That said, it’s hard faulting his contribution to Alabama’s season or finding a more compelling candidate from the SEC. McCarrion is first nationally in passer rating, third in yards per attempt and has not thrown an interception.

Kenjon Barner [RB - Oregon] Someone needs to travel to New York. Barner is on pace for more than 1,500 yards and 20 touchdowns for a BCS Title contender. He has not had a national showcase, yet but he’ll get some high-profile opportunities to prove himself against USC, Stanford and Oregon State.

Geno Smith [QB - West Virginia] There was an overcorrection this week, which should dissipate over the final weeks. Presuming West Virginia stems its tailspin, Smith will still put up some insane numbers and rack up some third and fourth place votes.

[Photo via Presswire]