Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel has made headlines as one of the finalists for this year’s prestigious Heisman Trophy, alongside notable players like Colorado’s Travis Hunter, Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, and Miami’s Cam Ward. However, the conversation surrounding the finalists has sparked debate, particularly from former Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Mike Golic, who believes Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders deserves a spot among the elite.
Golic’s Take on Heisman Finalists
During a recent episode of the “GoJo and Golic” show, Golic expressed his thoughts on the Heisman race, suggesting that Sanders should have been considered over Gabriel. “There’s part of me that would have put Shedeur Sanders over Dillon Gabriel,” Golic stated. He acknowledged Gabriel’s impressive record with Oregon, the only undefeated team heading into the College Football Playoff, but emphasized the remarkable achievements of Sanders throughout the season.
Shedeur Sanders’ Stellar Season
Sanders has had an outstanding regular season, finishing with 3,926 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and just eight interceptions. Additionally, he showcased his versatility by rushing for four touchdowns. Leading Colorado to a solid 9-3 record, including a 7-2 mark in the Big 12, Sanders has proven to be a pivotal player for the Buffaloes. His performance has not gone unnoticed, as he was recently named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year and also received the 2024 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
Dillon Gabriel’s Impressive Stats
On the other hand, Dillon Gabriel has also had a remarkable season, completing 297 of 406 passes for 3,558 yards, with 28 touchdowns and only six interceptions. His contributions extend beyond passing, as he added 192 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 63 carries. Gabriel’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding Oregon to the Big 12 title, where they triumphed over Penn State with a score of 45-37. As the Ducks prepare for the College Football Playoff, Gabriel remains focused on the Heisman Trophy, with the winner set to be announced soon.
Looking Ahead: The Alamo Bowl
As the season approaches its climax, Sanders is gearing up for what could be his final collegiate game. Colorado is set to face Big 12 rival BYU in the Alamo Bowl on December 28. With many speculating that Sanders will declare for the 2025 NFL Draft, expectations are high for him to be a top 10 pick. The anticipation surrounding his performance in the bowl game adds another layer of excitement to an already thrilling season.
Heisman Trophy: A Race to Remember
The Heisman Trophy race this year has been nothing short of exhilarating. With standout performances from Gabriel and Sanders, fans are left to ponder who truly deserves the coveted award. Will Gabriel’s undefeated record and impressive stats carry him to victory, or will Sanders’ remarkable season and accolades sway the voters? As the announcement date approaches, the tension builds, and college football enthusiasts eagerly await the outcome.
Final Thoughts on the Heisman Debate
The discussions surrounding the Heisman finalists highlight the depth of talent in college football this season. Both Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders have made compelling cases for the award, showcasing their skills and leadership on the field. As the College Football Playoff looms and the Alamo Bowl approaches, the excitement for college football continues to grow.
In the end, regardless of who takes home the Heisman Trophy, this season has provided fans with unforgettable moments and thrilling performances. As we celebrate the achievements of these young athletes, one thing is clear: college football is alive and thriving, with a bright future ahead.
