Collin Klein vs Johnny Manziel: Heisman Trophy Showdown 2022

The 2012 Heisman Trophy race featured a contrast in experience. Collin Klein, a senior, had led Kansas State to the top of the Big 12 with his dual-threat production. Johnny Manziel, a freshman, had just upset top-ranked Alabama in Tuscaloosa.

No freshman had ever won the Heisman. Manziel, nicknamed Johnny Football, challenged that history with his arm and his legs. Klein represented the steady senior campaign. Both made compelling cases for college football's most prestigious individual award.