A running back was the model for the iconic Heisman Trophy statue, but over time it is increasingly awarded to quarterbacks.

LSU senior Jayden Daniels is the latest QB to receive the honor as college football’s most outstanding player.

Daniels is the eighth Black QB to be so honored since 2010, joining Caleb Williams in 2022, Bryce Young in 2021, Kyler Murray in 2018, Lamar Jackson in 2016, Jameis Winston in 2013, Robert Griffin in 2011 and Cam Newton in 2010.

The 6-foot-4 Daniels is on a roll. Prior to the Heisman announcement, he was named Associated Press, Davey O’Brien, Walter Camp, Southeastern Conference and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Player of the Year.

A native Californian, Daniels played three seasons at Ari- zona State and the past two for LSU. With perhaps a bowl game left to play, Daniels has passed for 3,812 yards and 40 touchdowns and run for 1,134 yards and another 10 TDs.

He has decided he will not play for the Tigers in the Jan. 1 ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa against Wisconsin.

Five of the first six top vote getters were QBs. Washington’s Michael Penis was second, Oregon’s Bo Nix third, Florida State’s Jordan Travis fifth and Alabama’s Jalen Milroe sixth.

The exception was Ohio State receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., who finished fourth.

The Heisman, arguably the most famous award in all of sports, was created in 1935 by New York’s Downtown Athletic Club.

Serving as model for the 45-pound bronze statue was Ed Smith, a running back for New York University. Smith would go on to play in the NFL with Boston and Green Bay.

Between 1935 and 1951, before there was much passing, 15

running backs were chosen.

Since 2000, 21 QBs have been honored. Alabama’s Milroe is the likely frontrunner next season.

Is it time for a new statue?