Travis Hunter: A Two-Way Marvel

In a thrilling announcement on Monday, the Heisman Trophy finalists for 2023 were revealed, and all eyes are on Travis Hunter, the extraordinary two-way star from Colorado! This dynamic athlete is set to compete against three other outstanding players: Boise State's Ashton Jeanty, Oregon's Dillon Gabriel, and Miami's Cam Ward at the prestigious ceremony in New York this Saturday.

Hunter has become a frontrunner for the coveted award, showcasing a remarkable performance late in the season. He has not only dazzled fans with his versatility as both a wide receiver and cornerback, but he is also leading the Big 12 with an impressive 92 receptions for 1,152 yards and a staggering 14 touchdowns. On defense, he is a lockdown cornerback with four interceptions, one forced fumble, and 32 tackles, making him a double threat that has rarely been seen in college football history.

A Historic Moment in Heisman History?

Will this year mark a shift from the quarterback-dominated trend of recent years? It would indeed be a groundbreaking moment as, historically, only one non-quarterback has claimed the Heisman in the last eight seasons. The last to achieve this was Alabama's DeVonta Smith in 2020, while Derrick Henry was the last running back to take home the trophy in 2015.

Ashton Jeanty: Making Waves

Ashton Jeanty has also shook up the Heisman race with his phenomenal season. The Boise State star running back has racked up an astounding 2,497 rushing yards—leading the FBS—and 29 rushing touchdowns, putting him in contention with Barry Sanders' all-time single-season rushing record of 2,628 yards. Jeanty's explosive performances have been pivotal in securing Boise State's place as a top contender in the College Football Playoff, currently seeded No. 3.

Dillon Gabriel: A New Star Born

Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel has turned heads in his first season after transferring from Oklahoma, leading the Ducks to an impressive 13-0 record as the number one seed in the CFP. He holds a completion rate of 73.2% with an impressive 3,558 yards, 28 touchdowns, and only six interceptions, complemented by his seven rushing touchdowns. Gabriel’s leadership on the field was evident during crucial victories against elite teams like Ohio State and Penn State.

Cam Ward: Overcoming Setbacks

Meanwhile, Miami’s Cam Ward was initially considered a top candidate for the Heisman, but his chances have dwindled following tough losses. Despite this, Ward has put together an outstanding season with a completion rate of 67.4% and a remarkable 4,123 yards passing, along with 36 touchdowns—leading the ACC—and only seven interceptions, helping Miami finish the season strong at 10-2.

A Showdown to Remember

The Heisman Trophy ceremony promises to be an exhilarating showcase of talent, with fans eagerly anticipating whether Travis Hunter will make history as the first two-way player to win the award. Watch out, college football world—this season's finalists are ready to redefine excellence!