Boise State’s standout running back, Ashton Jeanty, played a pivotal role in securing the Broncos’ spot in the College Football Playoff on Friday night. His remarkable performance, which included 32 carries for 209 rushing yards and one touchdown, propelled the team to a solid 21-7 victory over UNLV in the Mountain West championship game.
This impressive showing not only highlights Jeanty’s skills on the field but also rounds off a season that many believe is worthy of Heisman Trophy recognition. As the regular season wraps up, Jeanty has tallied an impressive 344 carries, amassing 2,497 rushing yards, averaging 7.3 yards per carry, and scoring an outstanding 29 touchdowns.
The race for the prestigious Heisman Trophy seems to be tightly contested between Jeanty and Colorado’s versatile star, Travis Hunter. Following the championship game, social media has been abuzz with fans advocating for Jeanty’s candidacy, drawing comparisons between his outstanding season and some of the best performances in college football history.
A notable reference point in this conversation is Melvin Gordon’s 2014 season, which many believe should have earned him the Heisman, though it ultimately went to Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota. This sentiment was echoed by former Wisconsin star Montee Ball, who stated that the award “lost its legitimacy” following Gordon’s near miss.
Given the precedent set by Gordon’s close selection, some fans worry that Jeanty could face a similar fate despite his remarkable statistics. The two seasons share striking similarities, leading to speculation on whether Jeanty will be recognized for his impressive feats.
This season, Jeanty’s accomplishments can inspire hope and illustrate the hard work and tenacity found in college football. As the College Football Playoff approaches, there is a growing anticipation surrounding Jeanty and his potential to leave an indelible mark in college football history.
In summary, Ashton Jeanty’s phenomenal season not only showcases his remarkable talents but also fosters an engaging discussion about the Heisman Trophy’s credibility and criteria, as he aims to achieve what many believe he rightly deserves.