As the race to the Heisman Trophy intensifies, college football fans are buzzing with excitement over two standout players: Boise State’s running back Ashton Jeanty and Colorado Buffaloes’ two-way star Travis Hunter. Both athletes have been nothing short of spectacular this season, making compelling cases for the coveted award.
Travis Hunter leads the Heisman odds
Currently, Travis Hunter sits atop the Heisman odds list, a position that has sparked mixed reactions among fans. While many celebrate his achievements, a passionate contingent believes Jeanty deserves the honor more. On Thursday, On3 Sports shared the latest Heisman odds on their social media platform, igniting further debate among college football enthusiasts.
Fans voice their opinions
The response to Hunter’s leading position has been vocal, with several fans expressing their discontent and rallying behind Jeanty. One fan boldly stated, "Jeanty or it’s rigged," emphasizing their belief in Jeanty’s superiority. Another fan added, "The field easily. This is such a dumb debate. Snap count is not a stat to measure a Heisman. Take Jeanty off Boise St and they might be .500. He’s the best player in CFB. Debate a wall."
Others echoed similar sentiments, with comments like, "I wish people would stop acting like Hunter is the first football player to play both sides of the ball regularly. If Jeanty doesn’t win, it’s rigged." These reactions highlight the fierce loyalty and passion fans have for their favorite players.
Ashton Jeanty makes history
Jeanty’s recent performance against Oregon State has been a game-changer. In Boise State’s 34-18 victory, he rushed for an astounding 226 yards and scored a touchdown on 37 carries. This remarkable feat not only secured a win for his team but also set the Mountain West Conference single-season rushing record and broke the Boise State single-season scrimmage yards record.
When asked about his record-breaking performance, Jeanty humbly credited his teammates, stating, "First of all, I gotta give all glory to God … But it felt amazing man. Not only just for me but for the team. The personal success that I have doesn’t come anywhere just from me. It comes from team success, and great offensive play and defensive play." His humility only adds to his appeal as a player.
Travis Hunter shines in Colorado’s victory
On the other side, Travis Hunter is not to be overlooked. In Colorado’s dominant 52-0 victory over Oklahoma State, he showcased his versatility by accumulating 116 yards and scoring three touchdowns. His ability to contribute on both sides of the ball has made him a household name and a fan favorite.
Hunter’s dual-threat capability has drawn comparisons to legendary players who have excelled in similar roles. However, the debate surrounding his Heisman candidacy continues to stir controversy among fans who feel Jeanty’s accomplishments should take precedence.
Comparing the two stars
The contrasting styles of Jeanty and Hunter add layers to this Heisman race. Jeanty’s explosive running and record-setting performances have established him as a cornerstone of Boise State’s offense. Meanwhile, Hunter’s all-around skill set makes him a unique asset for Colorado, capable of changing the game in multiple ways.
While Hunter’s stats are impressive, many argue that Jeanty’s contributions are more impactful to his team’s success. The debate raises the question: What truly defines a Heisman-worthy player? Is it the individual statistics, the ability to influence games, or a combination of both?
Fans continue the debate
As the Heisman Trophy race heats up, fans remain divided. Some argue that Jeanty’s record-breaking performances and consistent excellence should earn him the award, while others believe Hunter’s versatility and contributions on both offense and defense make him the standout candidate.
Reactions from fans continue to pour in, with one stating, "Travis Hunter as the favorite over Ashton Jeanty is wild." Another chimed in, "Travis Hunter has been doing more than what any other athlete on the planet can do. But fr Ashton Jeanty is putting up unbelievable numbers as RB and should be the favorite for Heisman."
The impact of the Heisman Trophy
The Heisman Trophy is more than just an award; it represents the pinnacle of college football achievement. Winning it can significantly impact a player’s career, opening doors to professional opportunities and elevating their status in the sport. As the season progresses, both Jeanty and Hunter will continue to fight for this prestigious honor, and their performances will undoubtedly shape the narrative leading up to the announcement.
In the end, the Heisman Trophy race is not just about statistics; it’s about the heart, determination, and passion these players bring to the field. As fans, we are privileged to witness their incredible journeys, and the debate surrounding who deserves the award only adds to the excitement of college football. Who will emerge victorious in this thrilling race? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the 2024 season has been nothing short of electrifying.
