Let's say you're opening your mail. You open an envelope containing nothing but a single leaf. The next day, another envelope arrives, this one boasting a necktie with a picture of some guy named 'Ty.' You begin to wonder if you've upset the wrong person.

There is a rational explanation, though: it's Heisman Trophy season.

Hypothetically, the leaf should have made you think about Washington State quarterback Ryan Leaf; and the tie, about Brigham Young quarterback Ty Detmer.

Each year, ...