Travis Hunter is on the verge of making college football history. If he wins the Heisman Trophy in 2024, he will become the first full-time two-way player to claim this prestigious award. Not only that, but he would also be the first defensive player to win since Michigan’s Charles Woodson in 1997.
Hunter’s unique position as a full-time receiver and cornerback for the Colorado Buffaloes sets him apart. While Woodson was primarily a cornerback who occasionally played on offense, Hunter has showcased his talents on both sides of the ball throughout the season. This comparison, while frequently made, highlights the rarity of a player excelling in such diverse roles at this level.
Travis Hunter’s 2024 Stats
Hunter’s performance this season has been nothing short of spectacular. According to Pro Football Focus, he played 1,443 snaps, contributing significantly on offense, defense, and special teams. The Buffaloes finished the season with a commendable 9-3 record under head coach Deion Sanders.
Offensive Highlights
On offense, Hunter recorded an impressive 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns. He stands out as one of only two receivers in the nation to achieve at least 90 receptions, 1,000 yards, and 10 touchdowns this season. The other player to reach this milestone was San Jose State’s Nick Nash, who had 104 catches for 1,382 yards and 16 touchdowns.
Hunter’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations was evident as he bookended the season with remarkable games against North Dakota State and Oklahoma State. He opened the season with seven catches for 132 yards and three touchdowns against the Bison and followed it up with ten catches for 116 yards and another three touchdowns against the Cowboys. Throughout the season, he had seven games where he surpassed the 100-yard mark in receiving.
Defensive Contributions
On the defensive side, Hunter made his mark with 32 tackles, four interceptions, and 11 pass breakups. His pivotal play came during a thrilling overtime victory against Baylor, where he forced a fumble that helped secure a 38-31 win for the Buffaloes.
Hunter’s impressive stats and ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball have earned him a spot as a Heisman finalist alongside other top contenders, including Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel, and Miami’s Cam Ward.
Comparing Hunter and Woodson
So, how will they describe Hunter if he wins the Heisman? The comparisons between him and Woodson are inevitable. Woodson, who won the Heisman in 1997, is often cited as the last primarily defensive player to receive this honor. He had a standout season, leading college football with seven interceptions and contributing offensively with 11 catches for 231 yards and two touchdowns.
Woodson’s defining moment came against Ohio State, where he made an interception, caught a crucial pass, and returned a punt for a touchdown, leading Michigan to a victory. This performance helped solidify his status as a Heisman winner, and the Wolverines went on to claim the national championship that season.
The Legacy of Two-Way Players
Hunter and Woodson are part of a storied lineage of two-way players in college football history. Legendary figures like Jim Thorpe, Bronko Nagurski, Dick Butkus, and Chuck Bednarik have all made their mark by excelling in multiple positions. In the modern era, players like Paul Hornung, Champ Bailey, and Chris Gamble have also showcased their versatility.
Hornung, known as “The Golden Boy,” won the Heisman Trophy in 1956 while playing quarterback, halfback, and defensive back for Notre Dame. His legacy continues with the Hornung Award, given to the most versatile player in college football. Hunter has already claimed this award in both 2023 and 2024, showcasing his multifaceted skills.
Champ Bailey is often seen as Hunter’s closest comparison. During his time at Georgia from 1996 to 1998, Bailey excelled as both a wide receiver and cornerback, making significant contributions on both sides of the ball. In 1998, he had 47 catches for 744 yards and five touchdowns, along with three interceptions on defense.
Chris Gamble also made a name for himself as a two-way player for Ohio State from 2001 to 2003. He played a vital role in the Buckeyes’ national championship run in 2002, contributing both as a receiver and a defensive back.
The Heisman Trophy’s Unique History
As we look at the history of the Heisman Trophy, it’s important to note that Woodson remains the only defensive player to win this coveted award. Since his victory, only four defensive players have finished in the top five of the voting. Notably, Nebraska’s Ndamukong Suh finished fourth in 2009, while Alabama’s Mark Ingram claimed the award that year.
In 2011, LSU’s Tyrann Mathieu finished fifth, with Baylor’s Robert Griffin III taking home the trophy. Ohio State’s Chase Young also finished fourth in 2019, and Alabama’s Will Anderson rounded out this elite group by finishing fifth in 2021.
As the 2024 Heisman Trophy announcement approaches, the excitement surrounding Travis Hunter continues to build. Will he become the first full-time two-way player to win the award? The college football world is watching closely as he aims to carve his name into the history books.
