2012 Heisman finalists: Johnny Manziel, Collin Klein, and Manti Te'o named

Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel, Kansas State QB Collin Klein and Notre Dame linebacker Manti Te'o have been invited to attend the Heisman presentation ceremony in New York City on Dec. 8.Notre Dame linebacker Manti Te'o joins a pair of quarterbacks as Heisman Trophy finalists invited to New York City. The ceremony is set for Dec. 8 While Manziel is considered by most to be the favorite, Manti Te'o would be a deserving winner of the Heisman Trophy.

Te'o became the face of the No. 1 Notre Dame Fighting Irish defense, putting up impressive stats along the way. He finished the year with 101 tackles, seven interceptions, two sacks, four quarterback hits and two fumble recoveries. He would be the first player to win the Heisman who only played defense during a season.

"Johnny Football" is a redshirt freshman from Texas A&M. Manziel has thrown for 3,419 yards with 24 touchdowns, adding 1,181 yards and 19 touchdowns on the ground, leading the Aggies to a 10-2 record. He would be the first freshman to ever win the award.

Klein may have been the favorite earlier in the season, but a late-season loss to Baylor in which Klein coughed up three interceptions likely hurt his chances. Still, Klein has an impressive resume. The senior QB ran for 22 touchdowns and threw for 15 more. He carried the Wildcats to an 11-1 record and a Big 12 title.

The Heisman announcement will be made Saturday night.