In a tightly contested race, Colorado’s two-way standout Travis Hunter emerged as the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, edging out Boise State’s record-breaking running back Ashton Jeanty in what was one of the most competitive and diverse Heisman fields in recent memory. Hunter’s exceptional performance on both sides of the ball solidified his place in history as the second Heisman winner in Colorado Buffaloes history, joining Rashaan Salaam (1994) .
Why Hunter Won
Hunter, the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, distinguished himself as the nation’s premier two-way player. On defense, he recorded 32 tackles, 11 pass breakups, 4 interceptions, and a game-winning forced fumble. Offensively, he was just as dominant, finishing with 92 receptions, 1,152 receiving yards, and 14 touchdowns. His versatility and impact were unparalleled, as he ranked second nationally in receiving touchdowns and tallied 15 passes defended on defense .
A defining moment for Hunter came in Colorado’s win over Baylor, where he recorded 7 receptions for 130 yards and forced a critical goal-line fumble in overtime. His ability to shine under pressure in critical games added significant weight to his Heisman candidacy .
Jeanty’s Historic Season
Jeanty, the Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year, had an equally compelling case for the award. The Boise State running back led the nation in rushing with 2,497 yards and 29 touchdowns—both school and conference records. His consistency was unmatched, rushing for at least 125 yards in 13 consecutive games. Despite falling short in the Heisman voting, Jeanty’s season will be remembered as one of the greatest ever for an FBS running back .
Key Takeaways from the Race
Hunter’s ability to excel on offense and defense ultimately gave him the edge in a race where positional diversity was a key factor. The Heisman Trophy Trust recognized Hunter’s historic versatility as a rare achievement in modern college football. “I just wanted to make an impact wherever I could,” Hunter said during his acceptance speech. “This award is a testament to my teammates and coaches who believed in me.”
Jeanty congratulated Hunter and reflected on his own record-breaking campaign: “It was an honor just to be in this conversation. This season was about more than awards—it was about putting Boise State on the map.”
The Heisman debate will remain a highlight of the 2024 season, showcasing the unique contributions of two extraordinary athletes.
