LSU football: Why Leonard Fournette can win the Heisman in 2015

Aug 31, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; LSU Tigers tackle Vadal Alexander (78) in action against the Texas Christian Horned Frogs at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

He will be running behind a talented, veteran offensive line

Fournette will be running behind an offensive line that has the makings to be one of the best in the SEC.

It is hard to hide a running back like Fournette, who is 6-foot-1 and 230 pounds. If anyone can do it, though, it is the LSU offensive line, a unit which averages more than 315 pounds across the board.

The Tigers return four veterans on the line, including junior Jerald Hawkins and senior Vadal Alexander, both of whom could have easily bolted for the NFL Draft.

Alexander is considered to be one of the top offensive linemen in the country, and was listed on the preseason All-SEC first team.

If Fournette truly has learned to be patient and wait for his blocks, there will be plenty of holes to run through this season. And once he reaches the second level, he is capable of running over any defender that stands in his way. Just ask former Texas A&M defensive back Howard Matthews.

Fournette isn’t just a bruiser, either. He has exceptional speed for his size, and showed last season that when he gets into open space, he can outrun cornerbacks and safeties on his way to the end zone.

This combination of size and speed is something that gives Fournette an edge over nearly every back in college football.

Next: Improved quarterback play will take the focus off of Fournette