On December 14, 2024, the prestigious Heisman Trophy was awarded to junior cornerback/wide receiver Travis Hunter from the University of Colorado during the 90th Heisman Trophy Ceremony at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City. Hunter's remarkable dual performance throughout the season earned him the honor, marking the first time since 1997, when Charles Woodson took the award, and the first full-time, two-way player to win this accolade since the early 1960s.
The runners-up included Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, who took second place, Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel in third, and Miami quarterback Cam Ward finishing fourth. Hunter, who accumulated 2,231 points, surpassed Jeanty’s total of 2,017 points, with Gabriel and Ward at 516 and 229 points, respectively. This victory establishes Hunter as Colorado's second Heisman winner, the first since legendary running back Rashaan Salaam won the award back in 1994.
Coach Deion Sanders of Colorado, who previously finished eighth in the Heisman voting during his collegiate career at Florida State, led Hunter and the Buffaloes to numerous achievements throughout the season. With 31 tackles, 11 pass breakups, and four interceptions, Hunter not only proved his worth on offense, collecting 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns but also anchored the defense effectively.
Hunter's season was not without recognition either, as he was also awarded the Walter Camp, Bednarik, and Biletnikoff Awards, becoming the first player to secure national awards on both offense and defense. His statistics are historic, earning him widespread acclaim as he became the first player to finish with multiple games logging both interceptions and offensive touchdowns. These statistics firmly placed Hunter among the elite performers not just of the season, but in Heisman history.
"Travis Hunter is Colorado’s second Heisman winner and the Buffaloes’ first since the late running back Rashaan Salaam (1994)," reported CBS Sports, highlighting the significance of his victory to the university. He made waves throughout the season, leading the country with 21 receptions plays for over 20 yards. His performance reflects not only personal merit but also showcases remarkable endurance and versatility, especially as he significantly contributed on both sides of the ball.
Hunter's achievement also denotes broader significance in college football, challenging the prevailing trend of specialization among players. "He is the first full-time, two-way player to win the Heisman since the early 1960s and the first to win the award since Charles Woodson (1997)," notes the Heisman Trust. This moment serves as a landmark victory for two-way players and reinforces Hunter's status as a once-in-a-generation talent.
The Heisman voting process, conducted by Deloitte, involved 928 electors made up of 870 media members and former Heisman winners, alongside a fan vote, ensuring diverse representation within the voting body. This year’s votes illustrated the fierce competition among the finalists, particularly highlighting Hunter's dominance and recognition through various accolades during the season.
Reflecting on the competitive nature of the year, Jeanty, who was the runner-up, also presented strong credentials by rushing for nearly 2,500 yards. Gabriel and Ward, though finishing lower on the list, enjoyed stellar seasons with their respective teams. Notably, both Gabriel and Jeanty will feature prominently as players for their schools heading to the upcoming College Football Playoff, continuing to write their own stories within the vibrant world of college athletics.
Historic wins and losses are part of what makes college football such an exhilarating spectacle, and the announcements from the Heisman Trophy Ceremony capture some of these stories. Hunter's win establishes his place within the storied tradition of the Heisman. "He is the first junior to win the award since Oklahoma’s Kyler Murray (2018)," confirmed CNN, showing how impactful this achievement is not just for him, but for the Big 12 Conference and college football as a whole.
This event also allows fans to celebrate outstanding achievements and reflect on how these moments resonate within the communities of college football. Hunter's uniqueness as both defensive back and wide receiver won over many supporters, setting the stage for what could be many NFL prospects' next steps as they transition from college stardom to professional careers. With debates surrounding the value of versatility and specialization still on the table, Hunter’s triumph paves the way for future athletes who aspire to balance skills across different aspects of the game.
Hunter's achievement resonates through his history, as he is the fifth Heisman winner to hail from the state of Florida, reflecting the depth of talent flowing from the Sunshine State. His win not only grants him personal accolades but stands as recognition for the Colorado program, its coaching staff, and the community of fans who passionately support their teams.
This year’s Heisman Trophy Ceremony, broadcasted live by ESPN, draws attention to the achievements of young athletes, reaffirming the importance of the award within college football. Each year, the Heisman serves as both celebration and recognition of those who strive for excellence on the field, with moments like these punctuating the narrative of college football history.
