Why Jake Locker Wins The Heisman

Jake, I began to think about you and the Heisman trophy. I remember when you first came to Washington, you had so many choices, so many places that offered you so much. You wouldn't have any of it, You made your decision to be Husky, and you stuck with it. Jake, for being a man of integrity, you win The Heisman.

When an opportunity to visit and befriend a sick child arose, you didn't just do what was expected. You made young child dying of cancer a friend and an inspiration not only to yourself, but for everybody who got to know him through you. After he passed away, you continually honored his memory,and promoted childhood cancer awareness through The Run of Hope. Jake, for being a man of character and going the extra mile, for that Jake you win The Heisman.

When times were tough for the Huskies, and people were constantly looking for somebody to point the blame at, you never once hinted that your teammates weren't up to par, you never disparaged your coaches, and you always took the burden of responsibility upon yourself. Jake that is what true leaders always do. For being a leader in the truest sense of the word, Jake you win the Heisman.

Jake, when you ended your junior year on such a high note, and every NFL scout and draft analyst was arguing about whether you or Sam Bradford would be the first QB taken, I was convinced you were gone. I apologize for underestimating the strength of your commitment to our beloved Huskies. When you eschewed 45-50 million dollars to carry through on your pledge to lead the Huskies to a bowl game, I was blown away. I shouldn't have been, because you made a promise. It is a rare thing in this day and age for people to make promises, and then do all that they can to fulfill those promises. For that Jake, you win the Heisman.

Finally Jake, when this season began to spiral out of control, and you were injured, you imposed your will to win on your teammates and against your opponents. Anybody watching could tell you were in pain, but you never let it stop you, and you never blamed it for your performances. Watching you lead our Huskies to 3 straight must-win games to go to a bowl for the first time in 8 years was an example of true grit and sheer determination. Thank you for letting us be a part of this magical season with you. For that Jake, you win The Heisman.