Ashton Jeanty was the heart and soul of the Boise State Broncos this past season, and it meant everything to him and the program as a whole. His passion and determination on the field were evident, and his performance has left a lasting impact on fans and teammates alike.
Record-Setting Performance
In the end, Jeanty ended up being the Heisman Trophy runner-up to Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter, leading all of college football with an astounding 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns on 374 carries this season. He came just 28 yards shy of breaking Barry Sanders‘ NCAA single-season rushing record of 2,628 yards set in 1988. While not a record-breaking season, Jeanty’s performance was still extraordinary, finishing with 890 more rushing yards than his next closest competitor, Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo, who rushed for 1,711 yards.
A Team Player
While the individual accolades are incredible, Jeanty cares more about what he was able to do for his team. Boise State made the College Football Playoff as the No. 3 seed, earning a bye in the First Round. However, the Broncos faced a tough challenge in the Quarterfinals at the Fiesta Bowl, where they fell to Penn State. After the game, Jeanty took some time to reflect on his season and the journey that brought them this far.
“First of all, glory to God, you know, for bringing us this far, for helping us restore the order this year. We couldn’t do without him. You know, keeping God first is what’s got us here,” Jeanty stated during his postgame press conference. “But you know this season’s been a blessing. You know, God’s favor has been upon me and all my teammates all year. I’m just thankful.”
Facing Adversity
Moreover, Jeanty entered the Fiesta Bowl against the Nittany Lions needing only 132 rushing yards to surpass Sanders’ historic mark. Unfortunately, their defense limited Jeanty to a season-low 3.47 yards per carry average in a 31-14 loss. Jeanty finished with 104 rushing yards on 30 carries and no touchdowns. It was a disappointing end to an otherwise stellar season, and it’s clear that the loss weighed heavily on his mind.
“Obviously, didn’t come away with the result that we [wanted], but you know — not just me, but you know, a lot of guys on this team did special things all year,” he added, emphasizing the collective effort of his teammates.
Remarkable Statistics
Jeanty’s statistics this season are nothing short of remarkable. He eclipsed the 200-yard rushing mark six times, averaging an impressive 185.8 rushing yards per game. This level of performance not only showcases his talent but also highlights his ability to carry the team on his shoulders during critical moments. His blend of speed, agility, and vision on the field made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
While many players would revel in such individual success, Jeanty’s focus has always been on the bigger picture. His commitment to the team and his humble nature have endeared him to fans and teammates alike. It’s this dedication that has made him a standout player in college football this season.
A Bright Future Ahead
Ashton Jeanty has a bright future ahead of him with the NFL, but it’s obvious he’ll always have a special place in his heart for Boise State. After an undeniable 2024 campaign, he says goodbye to the Broncos, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. His journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the power of teamwork.
In a sport where individual accolades can often overshadow team success, Jeanty’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of both. His ability to balance personal achievement with a commitment to his teammates is what makes him a true leader on and off the field.
Looking Ahead
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Jeanty’s next steps. Will he be a first-round draft pick? How will he adapt to the professional level? These questions linger, but one thing is certain: Ashton Jeanty has left an indelible mark on Boise State and the world of college football. His journey is far from over, and as he transitions to the next chapter of his career, fans will be cheering him on every step of the way.
On3’s Alex Byington contributed to this article.
