DeShaun Watson was a star at Gainesville High School.

He was an AJC Super 11 selection in 2013 and left the Red Elephants as the Georgia record-holder for career passing yards in high school.

Now at Clemson, the dual-threat passer is leading the Tigers to a second-straight College Football Playoff appearance and is a Heisman Trophy finalist.

The Red Elephants haven't forgotten. The school's football field was painted with the message "Deshaun 4 Heisman:"

Watson is one of five finalists for college football's most valuable player award, which will be handed Saturday in New York.

Watson finished third in last year's voting. Watson attended the ceremony in a red suit, honoring his high school alma mater.

Win or lose, Watson still has a chance at another trophy. No. 3 Clemson faces No. 2 Ohio State Saturday, Dec. 31, in the Fiesta Bowl. The winner advances to the College Football Championship Game.