Shedeur Sanders has been nothing short of spectacular for the Colorado Buffaloes this season. After transferring from Jackson State, where he played under his father, Deion Sanders, the former three-star recruit has taken the FBS by storm. As the Buffaloes’ starting quarterback, he has amassed impressive stats, throwing for 3,222 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions in the first ten games. His completion rate stands at an astonishing 72.9%, and he has added four rushing touchdowns to his impressive tally.
Buffaloes’ Stellar Start
Not only has Sanders excelled individually, but he has also led Colorado to an 8-2 record, putting them in a prime position to make a run for the College Football Playoff. With such a strong performance, many are speculating about his future, projecting him as a potential top-five pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. However, despite his outstanding numbers, Sanders finds himself tied for the eighth-best odds for the Heisman Trophy at +25000. What could be holding him back from college football’s most prestigious individual award?
Reasons Shedeur Sanders May Not Win the Heisman Trophy
Here’s a closer look at three compelling reasons why Shedeur Sanders might not take home the Heisman Trophy this year.
#1. The Rise of Travis Hunter
One of the most significant challenges for Sanders comes from within his own team. His teammate, Travis Hunter, is currently a -400 favorite to win the Heisman Trophy. Hunter is not just a standout on offense; he’s a two-way player who has made a significant impact on both sides of the ball. With 74 receptions for 911 yards and nine touchdowns, he has proven to be a vital asset to the Buffaloes’ offense. Additionally, his defensive prowess is remarkable. Hunter has recorded 24 total tackles, including 17 solo tackles, and has made three interceptions this season.
The presence of such an elite player could overshadow Sanders’ achievements. With Hunter’s dual-threat capabilities, it’s easy to see why voters might be drawn to his all-around contributions, making it a challenge for Sanders to stand out.
#2. Cam Ward’s Impressive Performance
Another formidable competitor in the Heisman race is Cam Ward, the quarterback for the Miami (FL) Hurricanes. Ward currently boasts the third-best Heisman odds and has been the most impactful signal-caller this season. With 3,494 passing yards, 32 touchdowns, and only six interceptions, he leads the nation in both passing yards and touchdowns. His completion rate stands at 66.8%, and he has also contributed 182 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns.
Ward has guided the Hurricanes to a 9-1 record, showcasing the best offense in the nation. With such impressive statistics, it’s no wonder that he has garnered significant attention in the Heisman conversation, further complicating Sanders’ path to the award.
#3. Improved Buffaloes Defense
Last season, the Colorado Buffaloes’ defense was a liability, allowing an average of 34.8 points per game, ranking them No. 124 in the nation. However, this year has seen a remarkable turnaround. The Buffaloes’ defense is now allowing just 22.7 points per game, placing them at No. 50 nationally. This improvement has shifted the narrative around the team.
If Colorado were still struggling defensively while sitting at 8-2, Sanders would likely receive more credit for the team’s success. However, the defensive unit’s progress has led to a perception of a collective team effort rather than attributing the success solely to Sanders’ contributions. This shift in focus may hinder his Heisman chances.
The Bigger Picture
As the season progresses, the competition for the Heisman Trophy is heating up. While Shedeur Sanders has put together an impressive campaign, the factors at play—his teammate Travis Hunter’s dual-threat capabilities, Cam Ward’s standout performance, and the Buffaloes’ defensive improvements—create a challenging landscape for him.
The Heisman Trophy is awarded not just for individual statistics but also for the overall impact a player has on their team’s success and how they stand out among their peers. With the likes of Hunter and Ward making headlines, Sanders will need to continue his stellar play and perhaps even elevate his game further to secure the coveted award.
In the world of college football, anything can happen, and the race for the Heisman is far from over. As fans and analysts alike eagerly await the outcome, one thing is certain: Shedeur Sanders has already made a significant mark this season, and his journey is one to watch closely. Will he rise above the competition and claim the Heisman Trophy, or will the narrative shift in favor of his teammates and rivals? Only time will tell.
