Heisman Trophy finalists, from left, Colt Brennan, Chase Daniel, Darren McFadden and Tim Tebow stand together at the start of the presentation ceremony in New York. Kelly Kline | Associated Press pool

Tebow became the first sophomore to win the award presented tonight during a live telecast from New York.

The award that goes to the nation's top college football player is voted on by select media members and former Heisman winners.

Tebow finished with 1,957 points, followed by Arkansas running back Darren McFadden (1,703), Brennan (632) and Missouri quarterback Chase Daniel (425). Tebow received 462 first-place votes; Brennan received 54.

Brennan, UH's first Heisman Trophy finalist, led the Warriors to an undefeated regular season and a berth in the Bowl Championship Series' Sugar Bowl.

He became the highest Heisman finisher with Hawai'i ties. Herman Wedemeyer, a Saint Mary's halfback who played for Saint Louis School, finished fourth in 1945.

While they awaited the presentation, the finalists, including Brennan wearing a suit and a kukui nut, conch shell and maile lei, were shown playing a video game in a waiting room during the hour-long program on ESPN.

The program featured profiles and interviews with each of the four finalists.

Brennan's profile opened with scenes from Hawai'i and included Brennan catching tako and small fish on a boat.

Brennan and Daniel were interviewed together, with Brennan giving Daniel a lei.

Brennan said playing in Hawai'i "gave me confidence. It was a fresh start. The people care about you as a person.

"It was a breath of fresh air ... how I want to live my life."

Brennan leads the WAC and ranks second nationally in passing and total offense this season.

He holds the Football Bowl Subdivision record for career touchdown passes (131) and most touchdowns responsible for (146).