The anticipation is palpable as college football fans gear up for the 2024 Heisman Trophy ceremony, set to take place this Saturday in the heart of New York City. Among the frontrunners for this prestigious award is none other than Travis Hunter, the remarkable two-way star from Colorado. Hunter has made waves this season, showcasing his exceptional skills as both a cornerback and a wide receiver for the Buffaloes.
The Legacy of Deion Sanders
Travis Hunter’s success cannot be discussed without mentioning his head coach, Deion Sanders. Sanders, a legendary figure in college football, has been a vocal supporter of Hunter throughout the season. He knows a thing or two about the Heisman race, having been a standout player himself for the Florida State Seminoles in the late 1980s. During his fourth and final season at FSU, Sanders had a remarkable year, primarily playing defensive back while also returning kicks and punts. His versatility earned him some Heisman votes, a testament to his dynamic play on the field.
Did Deion Sanders win the Heisman?
While Deion Sanders left an indelible mark on college football, he did not win the Heisman Trophy in 1988. That honor went to Oklahoma State running back Barry Sanders, who set the single-season FBS rushing record with an astounding 2,628 yards and 37 touchdowns. The irony is not lost on fans today, as current Heisman finalist Ashton Jeanty from Boise State is just 131 rushing yards away from eclipsing Barry Sanders’ record.
In 1988, the Heisman finalists included Sanders alongside four quarterbacks: Rodney Peete from Oklahoma State, Troy Aikman from USC, Steve Walsh from UCLA, and Major Harris from Miami. Although he didn’t make the finalist cut, Sanders still received votes for the prestigious award. He also took home the Jim Thorpe Award that season, which is given annually to the nation’s best defensive back, solidifying his legacy in college football history.
A Look Back at Heisman Voting
Fast forward to 1998, and Deion Sanders found himself in the Heisman voting once again, finishing eighth. This time, he was behind Michigan State offensive lineman Tony Mandrich and Washington State quarterback Timm Rosenbach. The voting results from that year showcased a competitive field, with Barry Sanders, the eventual winner, dominating the ballots.
Here’s how the voting played out:
| Rank | Player | School | Pos | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | Total |
| 1 | Barry Sanders | OK-State | RB | 559 | 77 | 47 | 1878 |
| 2 | Rodney Peete | USC | QB | 70 | 264 | 174 | 912 |
| 3 | Troy Aikman | UCLA | QB | 31 | 149 | 191 | 582 |
| 4 | Steve Walsh | Miami (FL) | QB | 16 | 108 | 77 | 341 |
| 5 | Major Harris | WVU | QB | 27 | 60 | 79 | 280 |
| 6 | Tony Mandarich | Michigan State | OL | 3 | 9 | 25 | 52 |
| 7 | Timm Rosenbach | Wash. State | QB | 6 | 6 | 14 | 44 |
| 8 | Deion Sanders | Florida State | DB | 0 | 3 | 16 | 22 |
Deion Sanders’ College Stats
To truly appreciate Deion Sanders’ impact on the field, one must look at his impressive college statistics. Over his four years at Florida State, he made significant contributions not only as a defensive back but also as a return specialist. In 1988 alone, he returned 33 punts for 503 yards and scored one touchdown, averaging an impressive 15.2 yards per return.
His interception returns were equally remarkable. In 1985, he made history with a 100-yard interception return against Tulsa, a record that still stands at Florida State. Under the guidance of legendary coach Bobby Bowden, Sanders was part of a powerhouse Florida State team that boasted a 38-9-1 record, including four consecutive bowl victories.
The Future of Heisman Contenders
As the Heisman Trophy ceremony approaches, fans are left wondering if Travis Hunter can follow in the footsteps of legends like Deion Sanders. Will he be able to capture the coveted award and etch his name in the annals of college football history? With his unique ability to dominate on both sides of the ball, Hunter certainly has the potential to make a significant impact and perhaps even change the narrative surrounding two-way players in the sport.
The excitement surrounding this year’s Heisman race is undeniable, and it will be thrilling to see how it all unfolds. Whether you’re a die-hard college football fan or just tuning in for the spectacle, the 2024 Heisman Trophy ceremony promises to be a memorable event.
