The race for the coveted Heisman Trophy is heating up, and two names are dominating the conversation: Ashton Jeanty from Boise State and Travis Hunter of Colorado. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike are weighing in on who deserves college football’s highest individual honor.
Ashton Jeanty’s Impressive Stats
Ashton Jeanty had a standout performance recently, rushing for 169 yards and scoring one touchdown on 19 carries during Boise State’s narrow 17-13 victory over Wyoming. His remarkable achievement makes him the first player since legends Barry Sanders and Ricky Williams to amass 2,000 rushing yards and 25 rushing touchdowns within just 11 games. This kind of production is not only impressive but also puts Jeanty in the spotlight as a serious contender for the Heisman Trophy.
Support from NFL Stars
Adding to the buzz, Dallas Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons has publicly thrown his support behind Jeanty. Parsons retweeted a post that highlighted Jeanty’s historic season, stating,
"We shouldn’t even be discussing the Heisman!!! Ashton Jeanty is the Heisman winner!!"
This endorsement from an NFL star not only amplifies Jeanty’s visibility but also suggests that he may be a target for the Cowboys in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, especially given their current struggles at the running back position.
Travis Hunter’s Dual Threat
On the other hand, Travis Hunter continues to solidify his status as a frontrunner in the Heisman race. Despite Colorado’s 37-21 loss to Kansas, Hunter showcased his incredible talent by racking up 125 yards and two touchdown catches on eight receptions. His ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball—playing as a wide receiver and cornerback—has many fans and analysts arguing that his versatility makes him a more valuable candidate for the Heisman.
The Fan Debate: Jeanty vs. Hunter
As the debate intensifies, fans are divided on who should take home the prestigious award. Some supporters of Jeanty argue passionately for his recognition, stating,
"Sticking up for your future teammate love to see it."
However, a significant number of fans are rallying behind Hunter. One commentator noted,
"Sorry bro but it’s Travis killing on both sides of the ball, Jeanty is the best RB hands down. Heisman belongs to Hunter."
Others have echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the level of competition faced by both players. One fan remarked,
"I love Jeanty but he is playing against subpar competition. It would be no contest if he put up those numbers in the SEC or Big 10. Hunter is also playing a weak schedule but it is better than Jeanty and he is so impactful on both sides of the ball."
This highlights a crucial point: the strength of schedule can significantly influence a player’s Heisman candidacy.
The Odds Favor Hunter
As the odds shift in the betting world, Hunter is currently favored to win the Heisman. Bet 365 has given him -550 odds, while Jeanty’s odds stand at +600. This reflects the general sentiment among oddsmakers that Hunter’s dual-threat capability and his performance in high-pressure situations give him the edge in this race.
Expert Opinions on the Heisman Race
Prominent sports commentator Jason Whitlock weighed in on the Heisman race, suggesting that it should at least be a close contest. The ongoing discussions and debates surrounding these two players only add to the excitement of college football this season. As fans, we are witnessing a thrilling competition that showcases the best talents in the sport.
Looking Ahead: The Final Stretch
As the season progresses, both Jeanty and Hunter will have critical opportunities to solidify their Heisman candidacy. With only a few games left in the regular season, every performance will count. Will Jeanty continue to dominate on the ground, or will Hunter’s multifaceted contributions lead him to victory?
The Heisman Trophy race is not just about individual stats; it’s about the impact players have on their teams and the narratives that unfold throughout the season. As fans, we eagerly await each game, knowing that the outcome could sway the Heisman race in unexpected ways.
In the end, the Heisman Trophy is more than just an award; it symbolizes the pinnacle of achievement in college football. As we watch these two athletes battle it out on the field, we can only hope for thrilling performances and unforgettable moments that will define this year’s race.
