Fri Nov 22 22:17:08 UTC 2024: **Heisman Trophy Race Tightens as Hunter and Jeanty Surge Ahead**
AUSTIN, TX – With the Heisman Trophy voting closing on December 9th, the race for college football’s most prestigious award has intensified. Colorado’s two-way star Travis Hunter and Boise State’s record-breaking running back Ashton Jeanty have emerged as frontrunners, significantly widening their lead after impressive performances last week. Meanwhile, Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel and Miami quarterback Tyler Van Dyke face an uphill battle in the final two weeks of the season.
Hunter, the only two-way player at the Power Five level, solidified his position as a Heisman favorite. His standout performance against Utah (49-24 win) included five receptions for 55 yards, a rushing touchdown, an interception, and three tackles. This versatility propelled his odds to win the award from +125 to -400 according to ESPN. A win would make Hunter the first cornerback to claim the Heisman since Charles Woodson in 1997.
Jeanty’s record-breaking performance also puts him in strong contention. He shattered Boise State’s single-season rushing record, surpassing Jay Ajayi’s 1,823 yards with 1,893 yards through just 10 games following a 159-yard rushing performance against San Jose State (42-21 win).
The previously strong contenders, Gabriel and Van Dyke, have seen their odds diminish. Gabriel’s scoreless passing performance in Oregon’s narrow win over Wisconsin (16-13) significantly hurt his chances. Van Dyke, despite a strong statistical performance in Miami’s upset loss to Georgia Tech (28-23), has fallen behind due to the loss. While he still leads the nation in passing yards (3,494) and touchdowns (32), his team’s setback has diminished his Heisman prospects.
With only two weeks remaining before voting concludes, the Heisman race remains incredibly close, but Hunter and Jeanty currently hold the advantage.
First Piper 