As Week 6 of the 2024 college football season approaches, the Heisman Trophy race has seen a significant shift, with new leaders emerging and familiar faces holding their ground. The competition for college football’s most prestigious individual award remains fierce, with quarterbacks dominating the top spots and a few skilled position players making strong cases for themselves.
Jalen Milroe: The New Frontrunner
Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe has surged to the top of the Heisman odds following an outstanding performance against Georgia.
Milroe’s stats speak volumes:
- 964 passing yards
- 10 touchdowns
- 1 interception
- 273 rushing yards
- 8 rushing touchdowns
His dual-threat capabilities were on full display against Georgia, where he accounted for 491 total yards and four touchdowns. Milroe’s performance was historic, making him the first player in the AP poll era to record 300-plus yards passing, 100-plus yards rushing, and two-plus rushing touchdowns against a top-5 opponent.
Travis Hunter: The Two-Way Sensation
Colorado’s Travis Hunter has made a significant leap in the Heisman race, thanks to his exceptional play on both sides of the ball. Hunter’s ability to excel as both a wide receiver and defensive back sets him apart from traditional candidates.
Hunter’s impressive stats:
- 46 receptions (3rd in nation)
- 561 receiving yards (5th in nation)
- 6 receiving touchdowns (3rd in nation)
- 2 interceptions
- 3 passes defensed
- 16 total tackles
Hunter’s projected season totals of over 100 catches, 1,000 receiving yards, and potential defensive contributions put him in a unique position. His two-way play draws comparisons to Charles Woodson, the last defensive player to win the Heisman in 1997. However, Hunter’s receiving stats already surpass Woodson’s Heisman-winning season.
Ashton Jeanty: The Dark Horse
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty has emerged as a dark horse candidate, putting up remarkable numbers that have caught the attention of Heisman voters and oddsmakers.
Jeanty’s eye-popping stats:
- 845 rushing yards (1st in nation)
- 13 rushing touchdowns (1st in nation)
- 10.3 yards per carry
Jeanty’s efficiency is notable, with his yards-per-carry average potentially setting a new single-season record if maintained. His projected season totals of 2,535 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns would approach Barry Sanders’ historic 1988 Heisman-winning season.
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Other Contenders to Watch
Cam Ward (Miami, FL): Ward has the second-most passing yards and leads in passing touchdowns nationally. His performance has Miami undefeated and in championship contention.
Dillon Gabriel (Oregon): Gabriel leads an undefeated Oregon team with impressive accuracy, completing 82% of his passes. Upcoming games against Ohio State, Illinois, and Michigan provide opportunities for Heisman moments.
Nico Iamaleava (Tennessee): The freshman quarterback has led Tennessee to a No. 4 ranking. Upcoming games against Alabama and Georgia could solidify his Heisman case.
Factors Influencing the Race
Team Success: Historically, Heisman winners often come from teams in national championship contention. Colorado’s projected 8-win season could hinder Hunter’s chances, as no Heisman winner since 1969 has had four regular-season losses.
Strength of Schedule: Upcoming marquee matchups will be crucial for candidates to showcase their talents on a national stage. Milroe faces Tennessee, while Iamaleava has opportunities against Alabama and Georgia.
Statistical Milestones: Jeanty’s pursuit of Barry Sanders’ single-season records could factor into voters’ decisions.
Historical Trends: Quarterbacks have dominated recent Heisman races, winning 10 of the last 12 awards. This trend favors candidates like Milroe, Ward, and Gabriel.
Expanded Playoff Impact: The new 12-team College Football Playoff format could benefit candidates from non-Power Five conferences, like Jeanty, by keeping their teams in the national conversation longer.
Bottom Line
As the season progresses, these Heisman contenders will face increasing scrutiny and pressure. Their performances in key games, ability to maintain statistical excellence, and team success will all play crucial roles in determining who hoists the trophy in December.
The Heisman race remains fluid, with each week bringing new developments and shifting odds. Football fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as these talented athletes continue to make their case for college football’s most coveted individual award.
