It’s an exciting time in college football as we approach the 2024 Heisman Trophy announcement. This year, the spotlight shines not only on quarterbacks but also on talented non-quarterbacks who are making their mark. In a landscape where it’s increasingly rare for a non-quarterback to win the prestigious award, we may soon see a shift.
Potential Heisman Contenders
Among this year’s Heisman finalists, Miami’s Cam Ward and Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel represent the quarterback contingent. However, the real buzz surrounds Colorado’s dynamic wide receiver/cornerback, Travis Hunter, and Boise State’s electrifying running back, Ashton Jeanty. Both are seen as frontrunners, and their performances this season have captivated fans and voters alike.
Jeanty has made a compelling case for the award, coming dangerously close to breaking Barry Sanders’ legendary single-season rushing record of 2,628 yards set in 1988 at Oklahoma State. In any ordinary season, Jeanty would likely be the clear favorite, but with Hunter showcasing his skills on both sides of the ball, the competition is fierce. Could Jeanty’s dominance in the rushing game sway voters in his favor?
The Impact of Non-Quarterbacks
It’s incredibly rare in today’s college football world to see a non-quarterback win the Heisman Trophy. In the 21st century alone, only four players have claimed this honor without playing quarterback. This trend raises the stakes for players like Jeanty and Hunter, as they strive to break the mold and demonstrate that excellence can come from any position on the field.
If Jeanty does take home the Heisman, he would join an impressive lineage of running backs who have achieved this honor. The last running back to win the Heisman was Derrick Henry from Alabama in 2015. Henry’s remarkable season included leading the nation in carries, rushing yards, and rushing touchdowns, culminating in a Heisman Trophy victory that solidified his legacy.
Who is the last running back to win the Heisman?
The last time a running back claimed the Heisman Trophy was in 2015, when Derrick Henry dominated the college football landscape at Alabama. In his third year with the Crimson Tide, Henry led the nation with an astounding 395 carries, racking up 2,219 rushing yards and scoring 28 rushing touchdowns. His performance not only earned him the prestigious award but also helped propel Alabama to an SEC title and a national championship victory over Clemson.
Henry’s impact on the field was undeniable. He rushed for 158 yards and three touchdowns in the championship game, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. At the time, he set a new Alabama record for career rushing yards, finishing with 3,591 yards—a record that stood until 2020 when Najee Harris surpassed it.
How many running backs have won the Heisman Trophy?
In total, there have been 45 running backs or fullbacks to win the Heisman Trophy throughout its history. While some players have played multiple positions, those categorized as halfbacks, running backs, or fullbacks are included in this tally. It’s fascinating to note that in the early years of the Heisman, running backs were the dominant force. However, since the turn of the century, the award has increasingly favored quarterbacks.
Since 2000, only three running backs have earned the honor: Derrick Henry, Mark Ingram, and Reggie Bush. This shift in focus raises questions about the future of the award. Will Jeanty or Hunter be able to break through this trend and secure a Heisman victory?
The Legacy of Running Backs in College Football
The legacy of running backs in college football is rich and storied. From the early days of the Heisman Trophy to the present, these athletes have left an indelible mark on the game. Running backs were once the stars of the show, with the award almost exclusively going to players in their position.
However, as the game has evolved, so too has the perception of what it takes to win the Heisman. The rise of the quarterback-centric game has shifted the narrative, but that doesn’t diminish the impact of running backs like Jeanty. His ability to break tackles, find holes, and accelerate down the field has made him a fan favorite and a serious contender for the award.
As we look ahead to the Heisman announcement, one can’t help but wonder: will this be the year a non-quarterback breaks through? With the likes of Jeanty and Hunter in the mix, the stage is set for an exciting conclusion to the college football season.
With the Heisman Trophy on the line, the anticipation is palpable. Fans are eager to see if a running back can reclaim the spotlight and remind everyone that greatness comes in many forms. The 2024 Heisman race is shaping up to be one for the ages, and we can’t wait to see how it unfolds!
