The Heisman Memorial Trophy Award ( often known simply as the Heisman Trophy or The Heisman ) , named after the former college football coach John Heisman , is awarded annually by the Downtown Athletic Club of New York City to the most outstanding player in collegiate football . The Heisman Memorial Trophy Award ( usually known colloquially as the Heisman Trophy or the Heisman ) , is awarded annually to the player deemed the most outstanding player in collegiate football .