December 15th 2024.
Travis Hunter's journey to the Heisman trophy was nothing short of extraordinary. Not only did he receive the highest honor in college football on December 14, but he also earned recognition as the best wide receiver and defensive player in the sport. The Athletic reported that Hunter became the first true two-way player since 1961 to win the Heisman, following in the footsteps of Syracuse's Ernie Davis.
His season was truly remarkable, breaking records and making history along the way. Hunter became the first player in NCAA history to achieve 92 receptions for 1,152 yards, 14 touchdowns, and four interceptions in a single season. It was a moment that Hunter will never forget, as he thanked his coach Prime and teammate Shedeur for changing his life forever.
The whole world celebrated Hunter's victory, with sports networks like SportsCenter and Bleacher Report sharing the incredible news. It was a moment that Hunter and his coach, Deion Sanders, will cherish forever, captured by a photo that will always hold a special place in their hearts.
Many have compared Hunter to Charles Woodson, the last non-offensive player to win the Heisman. However, even Woodson believes that it's not a fair comparison to make. As he told The Athletic, "They sprinkled me out there when they needed a play. I didn't do a whole lot of offense. Travis actually plays both sides of the ball. You can say he's a two-way player that played defense, but I'm still the only defensive player to win it."
Hunter's desire to play on both sides of the ball has been supported by his head coach, Deion "Coach Prime" Sanders, since their time together at Jackson State. And it has clearly paid off, with tremendous results at the Power 5 level. In fact, Sanders has been vocal about his belief that Hunter is the best player in college football, with his son Shedeur as the catalyst for his success.
This belief was proven right when the Heisman voters agreed and crowned Hunter as the winner on December 14. In a close race, Hunter's spectacular season was enough to overcome impressive numbers from a running back, something that hasn't been seen since Barry Sanders' incredible 1988 season. After the Alamo Bowl against BYU, Hunter will move on to the next level, where he is expected to be a top pick in the NFL draft alongside his quarterback and Shedeur Sanders.
Scouts project that Hunter will likely have to choose a position in the NFL, with cornerback being the most likely outcome according to The Athletic's Dane Brugler. However, it's also possible that he will have some packages where he is utilized as a wide receiver. Regardless, Hunter is seen as a near lock for a top-five pick, with his natural ability to create big plays and his impeccable character off the field.
During his acceptance speech, Hunter's character was on full display as he took the time to thank his father, who watched the ceremony from home. Emotions ran high as Hunter dedicated his achievement to his father, saying, "I want to say something to my father. He's not here and wasn't able to make it, but I know you're watching on TV. Dad, I love you. For all the stuff you went through, now look at your oldest son. I did it for you, man."
He continued, thanking his father for all the times he couldn't be there to see him play and for the times he did come to support him. Hunter's love for his father was evident as he promised to bring the trophy home for him. It was a heartwarming moment that captured the true essence of Hunter's character and the love he has for his family.
Travis Hunter's achievement is truly remarkable, making history as the first college athlete to win back-to-back Paul Hornung Awards. It's a testament to his hard work, dedication, and talent, and it's a moment that will be remembered for years to come.
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