There is a debate among fans that Travis Hunter is the most deserving candidate for the Heisman Trophy this year. However, I would argue that the honor truly belongs to Ashton Jeanty. As the season progresses and the college football playoffs approach, Jeanty is on the brink of breaking the legendary Barry Sanders’s long standing record. In contrast, Travis Hunter has yet to scale similar heights or achieve any notable records of his own.
While many people highlight Hunter’s unique ability to excel at two positions, I believe this may actually hinder his candidacy for the Heisman. The reality is that playing dual roles in the NFL will likely not be feasible for him, especially since he hasn’t proven to be the standout player at either position. Jeanty, on the other hand, solely plays running back, allowing him to showcase his skills and consistently deliver explosive performances. As the cornerstone of the Boise State Broncos’ offense, he drives the team’s success and contributes significantly to their scoring.
Critics might also claim that Jeanty’s journey through the Mountain West Conference has been relatively easy or less competitive. However, I would argue that even against some of the strongest teams in the nation, he has risen to the challenge. A prime example of his prowess was on display during the game against Oregon, where he rushed for an impressive 226 yards and scored two touchdowns against the then-top-ranked team in college football. This level of performance against formidable opponents reinforces his worthiness for the Heisman Trophy and sets him apart as a truly exceptional player.
It will be exciting to witness the remarkable potential of these two outstanding candidates as they make their mark in the future. I truly hope that Jeanty’s dedicated efforts can breathe new life into the running back position, which is often overlooked and undervalued in the NFL. This position deserves recognition for its critical role in the game, and it would be exciting to see it regain the respect it rightfully warrants.
