Winning the Heisman Trophy, college football’s most prestigious award, requires a number of factors. In the past few years, the “Best Player in College Football” has transformed into “The Best Player on the Best Team.” Winning the award requires incredible individual performances, but also a great season by the player’s team. Without further ado, here are ten players to watch in 2007.

10. Percy Harvin. A sophomore has never won the Heisman Trophy and that probably won’t change this year. But Florida’s Harvin could find himself on the big stage in a year or two. His versatility helped Urban Meyer’s offense go to the next level in 2006. He can do it all, whether it’s running the ball, catching it or returning it. Harvin averaged over 11 yards for every touch he got.

9. Brandon Ore. Virginia Tech’s running back will be the primary weapon in helping VT get into a BCS bowl. Big performances against LSU, Miami and Florida State could find Ore getting some Heisman hype. VT is no stranger to Heisman hopefuls at running back. Kevin Jones and Lee Suggs both received plenty of attention and look for Ore to get the same.

8. Jamaal Charles. Texas is primed for another big season behind Charles and quarterback Colt McCoy. Charles ran for 831 yards but should be an even greater focal point in the Texas offense. Texas has generated plenty of Heisman contenders in the past, whether its Ricky Williams, Roy Williams or Vince Young.

7. DeSean Jackson. Cal’s go-to receiver has the benefit of returning kicks as well, which is a requirement for any wide receiver hoping to win the Heisman Trophy. Jackson had over 1,000 receiving yards and nine touchdowns to go with his four return scores. Want an impressive stat? Jackson has scored on nearly 20% of his punt returns.

6. Michael Hart. I consider Michigan the favorite in the Big Ten. Hart is a huge reason why. Hart finished 5th in Heisman voting a season ago after running for over 1,500 yards. With the Buckeyes coming to the Big House late in the season, another big performance should put him in New York again.

5. Steve Slaton. West Virginia is poised for another big year on the back of Slaton and quarterback Pat White. Slaton ran for over 1800 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2006. However, he loses tons of yards (over 1000) and touchdowns (18 more) to White. Is there room for two electrifying Mountaineers at the Heisman Trophy ceremony?

4. Brian Brohm. Louisville’s star quarterback also has a good shot at the award. Brohm’s Heisman push was derailed by several injuries, including a torn labrum in the Orange Bowl. Without that injury, he might have declared for the NFL Draft. Can Brohm mesh with Louisville’s new coach, Steve Kragthorpe. There’s several questions here but you can’t deny his talent.

3. Colt Brennan. There’s no doubt the early hype is there. Brennan returns to Hawaii after throwing for a ridiculous 5,500 yards and 58 touchdown passes. That’s unheard of, even in June Jones’ quarterback-friendly offense. But Brennan isn’t a slouch, especially in the improving WAC conference. It’ll be tough for Brennan to make a huge splash because of Hawaii’s schedule. However, a win against Boise State on November 23rd may be the only obstacle in an undefeated season.

2. John David Booty. Booty will be leading a team that has the most talent of any team in the country. USC is a good bet to win the national championship. If they finish the regular season undefeated, Booty will be close to a lock for winning the trophy. Ask Carson Palmer, Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush about USC’s ability to produce Heisman Trophy winners.

1. Darren McFadden. Quite simply, the best player in college football. He ran for 1,650 yards and 14 touchdowns in a one-dimensional Arkansas offense. But he also did his best LaDainian Tomlinson impersonation, completing 7-9 passes for three touchdowns. McFadden will put up the gaudy numbers for the Razorbacks, who don’t have many other weapons on the offensive side of the ball.