Marvin Harrison Jr. addresses his Heisman candidacy, historic stats

Marvin Harrison Jr. took some time to reflect on his exquisite season prior to Ohio State’s Week 12 showdown with the Minnesota Golden Gophers.

The Buckeyes star is firmly in the Heisman race, with many believing he has a shot to win the prestigious award later in December. Harrison Jr.’s stats back up his candidacy, as he’s amassed 59 receptions for 1,063 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023.

Still, that’s not the main thing on the wide receiver’s mind. He’s simply keeping Ohio State’s team goals at the forefront of his mind.

“That wasn’t in my head at all,” Harrison Jr. revealed, regarding whether the Heisman has been on his mind. “I just want to beat the team up north, and go to the Big Ten Championship. I mean, I’ve kind of been saying it all year. Those are the two goals I’ve had, before the season even started. I’m thankful to even be in the conversation.

“But you know, there’s a lot of football left to be played, and I’m just trying to do my best to help the team win.”

Nevertheless, does it mean something to Harrison Jr. to be mentioned among the Heisman candidates? His sole focus on winning a national title won’t let it.

“Not meaningful too much,” Harrison Jr. added. “Obviously, I’m very thankful and blessed to be in the conversation, but we still have two games left in the regular season, and hopefully one in the Big Ten Championship. That’s kind of been my goal all year. Beat them team up north, and win the Big Ten Championship.

“Whatever happens in December, happens in December. Right now, I’m just focusing on the corrections that we need to make from this game, and Minnesota.”

Regardless, Harrison Jr. continues to break records at Ohio State. He recently became the first receiver to have two 1,000 yard receiving seasons for the Buckeyes. He’s not taking any of the praise though.

“All praise and glory to God. He blessed me a lot, with a lot of different gifts,” Harrison Jr. said, regarding becoming the first receiver to have two 1,000 yard receiving seasons for the Buckeyes. “Each and every day, I just try to honor those gifts. I put in as much work as I can. He’s blessed me to be able to accomplish a feat like that.

“To be the first ever to do something in Ohio State history, especially as a receiver. We know how many great receivers come through this place. That means a lot. I’m super blessed.”

Alas, Marvin Harrison Jr. has a fantastic shot at making it to New York for the Heisman Ceremony. Will he win it? That remains to be seen, but he’s keeping the main thing the main thing at the moment.