Heisman watch 2012: Collin Klein closes gap with strong performance

Kansas State quarterback Collin Klein needed a strong game on Saturday night to close the gap in the Heisman race and likely accomplished that goal with a big game against Texas.

Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel has long been considered the favorite for the Heisman Trophy, putting together a magical freshman season in the first season in the SEC for the Aggies. Manziel finished the season on Nov. 24 with 372 passing yards against Missouri and three touchdowns, adding two more rushing touchdowns. For the season, Manziel has 3,419 yards passing with a 68 percent completion percentage, 24 touchdowns and just eight interceptions, adding 19 touchdowns on the ground on 1,181 yards rushing.

Notre Dame senior linebacker Manti Te'o is also in the running, finishing the season with seven interceptions, 1.5 sacks and six games of double-digit tackles. Te'o is considered the favorite by some, yet it is expected that the big race for the Heisman Trophy will come down to Manziel and Klein.

The Wildcats quarterback recovered from a slow start to lead a comeback win on Saturday, leading the charge with a strong rushing attack. Klein finished 8-for-14 for 184 yards, rushing for 103 yards on 23 carries and three total touchdowns. For the season, Klein has 2,306 and 14 touchdowns on 66 percent passing, adding 20 touchdowns and 787 yards rushing.

The Heisman winner will be announced on Dec. 8 at 7 p.m. CT live on ESPN.