The 2024 Heisman Trophy race has taken more twists and turns than a Hollywood blockbuster, and as rivalry week takes center stage, the leading contenders have one final chance to leave Heisman voters spellbound before the final votes are tallied.
Travis Hunter’s Two-Way Dominance Turning Heads
Colorado’s electric receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter has vaulted to the top of the Heisman heap with an unprecedented season on both sides of the ball. The sophomore sensation has amassed a staggering 1,266 snaps, eclipsing 1,000 receiving yards and snagging three interceptions. Coach Deion Sanders boldly declared the race a “wrap” weeks ago, but Hunter has a prime opportunity to punctuate his campaign against Utah in a high-stakes Pac-12 clash.
Ashton Jeanty’s Rushing Rampage Rewrites Record Books
Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty has been a one-man wrecking crew, becoming the first player since 2019 to surpass 2,000 rushing yards while scoring at a torrid pace. With the Broncos’ New Year’s Six bowl aspirations on the line against Fresno State, the electric back can further cement his Heisman case with another jaw-dropping performance.
Miami’s Cam Ward Spearheading Hurricanes’ Return to Prominence
The Hurricanes’ dazzling quarterback has brought echoes of “Quarterback U” back to Coral Gables, shattering school records while guiding Miami to the brink of an ACC title and College Football Playoff berth. A strong showing against Syracuse could see Ward become Miami’s first Heisman finalist since Ken Dorsey in 2002.
Dillon Gabriel Conducting Oregon’s Undefeated Symphony
Oregon’s sixth-year signal caller has been a model of efficiency and leadership for the unbeaten Ducks, recently becoming the FBS all-time leader in total touchdowns. While his numbers may not be as gaudy as some of his competitors, Gabriel has been the steady hand behind the nation’s No. 1 team and has earned his place in the Heisman conversation.
Rivalry Week Provides Ultimate Proving Ground
As these Heisman hopefuls prepare for their rivalry showdowns, the college football world waits with bated breath to see who will seize the moment and capture the sport’s most prestigious individual honor.
In a race this close, with so many deserving candidates, what happens in these rivalry games could be the deciding factor. Every snap will be scrutinized, every highlight amplified. It’s what makes this time of year so special.
– Noted college football analyst, per sources
As the old saying goes, legends are made in November. For Travis Hunter, Ashton Jeanty, Cam Ward, Dillon Gabriel, and the rest of the Heisman contenders, the road to immortality runs through rivalry week. Which player will rise to the occasion and etch their name into college football lore? We’ll find out soon enough.