The 2024 Heisman Trophy will be awarded tonight to the nation’s top college football player at the Lincoln Center, New York City, starting at 8 p.m. ET. This year’s ceremony features four finalists, each showcasing outstanding performances throughout the season.
Leading the charge is Colorado’s Travis Hunter, who has emerged as the consensus favorite. Hunter's unique ability to play both wide receiver and cornerback has titillated fans and analysts alike. His impressive stats include 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns. On the defensive side, Hunter logged 31 tackles, four interceptions, and 11 pass breakups, demonstrating his incredible versatility.
Following closely behind is Dillon Gabriel, the Oregon quarterback who orchestrated his team to a remarkable 13-0 regular season. Gabriel, who transferred from Oklahoma last offseason, amassed 3,558 passing yards, threw 28 touchdowns and maintained a completion percentage of 73.2%. His play has propelled Oregon to the College Football Playoffs as the top seed.
Boise State's Ashton Jeanty also made headlines this season with his explosive rushing game. Jeanty has accumulated 2,497 rushing yards and scored 29 touchdowns. Notably, he achieved the remarkable feat of running for over 100 yards in every game this season. His performance has landed him the Maxwell Award—an accolade for the best player in college football.
Another contender is Cam Ward from Miami, who has thrown for 4,123 yards and 36 touchdowns. Amidst his prolific year, Ward has found himself at the forefront of the Heisman conversation thanks to his stellar throws and leadership on the field.
While each of the athletes boasts impressive credentials, Hunter's extraordinary season positions him as the front runner. If Hunter wins, he’ll become the first non-quarterback to capture the Heisman since DeVonta Smith of Alabama won the award in 2020.
The event, regarded as the most prestigious individual award ceremony, has been eagerly awaited, especially since the finalists were announced on December 9. Broadcasting on ESPN, the ceremony allows fans to tune in and catch the live presentation.
For this year’s awards, Hunter is not only recognized for his dual-threat capabilities but also for having already secured the Biletnikoff Award for the best wide receiver and the Bednarik Award for the top defensive player. The spotlight tonight emphasizes how Hunter has put together one of the most unique seasons college football has seen.
The Heisman Trophy ceremony is not merely about the award itself—it also highlights the hard work, dedication, and achievements of college athletes throughout the year. With the collegiate football season wrapping up and the College Football Playoffs looming, the Heisman serves as the pinnacle of individual recognition.
The anticipation for tonight’s event is palpable among fans and players alike. Many view it as the culmination of the players’ hard work and the beginning of significant opportunities, especially with the NFL Draft approaching.
With all eyes on the final decision, the question remains: Who will take home the coveted trophy? Will it be Travis Hunter, Dillon Gabriel, Ashton Jeanty, or Cam Ward? Each finalist brings with them benefits of collegiate success, but only one will emerge victorious tonight.
