Melvin Gordon thinks Jameis Winston isn't a Heisman finalist because of off-field issues

Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon is one of three Heisman finalists that will learn their fate in Saturday night's Heisman ceremony. Joining Gordon are Alabama WR Amari Cooper and Oregon QB Marcus Mariota. Most notably missing is the reigning Heisman winner Florida State QB Jameis Winston.

Wisconsin RB Melvin Gordon is one of three Heisman finalists that will learn their fate in Saturday night's Heisman ceremony. Joining Gordon are Alabama WR Amari Cooper and Oregon QB Marcus Mariota. Most notably missing is the reigning Heisman winner — Florida State QB Jameis Winston.

Even if it's a guarantee that Mariota will win the award, it's a slap in the face to the quarterback who has led his team to a second straight undefeated season. Winston's numbers (24 TDs and 17 INT) are nowhere near his incredible season in 2013 (40 TDs, 10 INT), but his leadership on the field is unquestionable.

Gordon thinks Winston isn't a finalist because of all of the off-field issues he has had this season.

"He's probably not here because of his off-the-field issues," the Wisconsin running back said, according to USA Today's Nicole Auerbach.

Right after he said that, he went on to praise Winston and said he hopes to meet him someday. He probably realized that his remark may not be well-received.

Gordon then went on to praise Jameis as a football player. Says he hopes to meet him someday.

— Nicole Auerbach (@NicoleAuerbach) December 12, 2014

Winston has had his fare share of off-the-field issues this season ranging from a sexual assault hearing with the university, yelling an obscenity in the student union and being cited for stealing crab legs this offseason.

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner had the option to return to the ceremony as a previous winner, but he isn't going to attend so he can focus on practice for the Rose Bowl — can't say I blame him.

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