The Heisman Trophy Midseason Report: Surprising Contenders Emerge
As we reach the midpoint of the college football season, the Heisman Trophy race is heating up. Last year’s frontrunners, like Washington’s Michael Penix Jr., Tennessee’s Hendon Hooker, and Kenneth Walker III, ultimately fell short of taking home the coveted award. This season, a new crop of talented players is vying for the top spot.
The Current Top Contenders
- Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State: With 1,248 rushing yards and 18 total touchdowns, Jeanty is on pace to break Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record. His explosive plays and dominance on the field have earned him 11 first-place votes.
Jeanty’s Heisman Moment: In a thrilling 37-34 win over Oregon, Jeanty rushed for 192 yards and three touchdowns, including a 70-yard TD run that tied the game in the fourth quarter.
Key Stat: Jeanty has gained 841 rushing yards after first contact, 355 yards more than any other FBS running back.
- Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado: This two-way star is making a strong case for the Heisman with his impressive performances on both offense and defense. Despite a recent shoulder injury, Hunter remains a top contender with 49 catches for 587 yards and six touchdowns.
Hunter’s Heisman Moment: His diving interception against UCF, followed by a Heisman pose, showcased his electrifying playmaking ability.
Key Stat: Prior to his injury, Hunter played an astonishing 92% of Colorado’s snaps on offense and defense.
- Cam Ward, QB, Miami: Ward has exceeded expectations, leading the undefeated Hurricanes to the top of the ACC standings. With 2,219 passing yards and 23 total touchdowns, he’s proven himself as a top quarterback in the country.
Ward’s Heisman Moment: In a dramatic comeback win over Cal, Ward threw for 437 yards and led four consecutive touchdown drives to secure the victory.
Key Stat: Ward averages 12.2 yards per attempt on third downs, the best among FBS starting quarterbacks.
- Dillon Gabriel, QB, Oregon: Gabriel has been a game-changer for the Ducks, accounting for 1,893 total yards with 17 touchdowns and three interceptions. His poise under pressure has been impressive, particularly in Oregon’s upset win over Ohio State.
Gabriel’s Heisman Moment: His 373 total yards and three touchdowns against Ohio State showcased his ability to perform under pressure.
Key Stat: Gabriel needs only 2,563 more passing yards and 18 more passing touchdowns to surpass Houston’s Case Keenum as the NCAA all-time leading passer.
- Kurtis Rourke, QB, Indiana: Rourke has been instrumental in the Hoosiers’ stunning 6-0 start, passing for 1,752 yards with 16 total touchdowns and two interceptions. His experience and efficiency have injected confidence into a team that went 3-9 last year.
Rourke’s Heisman Moment: In a 41-24 win over Northwestern, Rourke shut down the Wildcats’ upset bid with consecutive touchdown drives, finishing with 380 passing yards and three TDs.
Key Stat: Indiana has outscored its six opponents by a combined margin of 196 points, second only to Texas and Ole Miss.
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