Heisman “Chase” is on

First things first — Missouri has yet to play a quality opponent.

Still, it’s impossible to ignore what Chase Daniel has done in the first four weeks of the season. The Missouri quarterback has been stellar.

Passing percentage: 75.9 percent. 

Passing yards: 1,412 yards.

Passing touchdowns: 12.

Interceptions: 1.

Even if you’re playing against ghost players in the backyard, those are amazing numbers. And right now, no one else comes close to what Daniel has done.

That’s why he tops my vote in this week’s HeismanPundit.com/Orlando Sentinel Heisman Trophy straw poll.

Against Buffalo this weekend — and no, it wasn’t the NFL team that calls upstate New York its home – Daniel complete 20 consecutive passes at one point. No other quarterback in the history of the Big 12 has ever had a stretch when he’s been so hot.

Daniel could really assert himself in his next two games. After an off week, Missouri plays at Nebraska and at Texas. Those games could put him in the Heisman driver’s seat.

Here’s a look at my ballot this week:

1. Daniel: In a word, impressive.

2. Tim Tebow, Florida: The Gators scored a solid win against Tennessee, but the junior quarterback was fairly pedestrian. He had only 96 yards passing with two touchdowns.  Frankly, the Gators didn’t need him to do any more. That speaks well of the strength of their team, but doesn’t do much to boost a Heisman campaign.