Boise State’s standout running back Ashton Jeanty showcased his talent in a significant way, leading the Broncos to a place in the College Football Playoff with a stellar performance in the Mountain West Championship on Friday night. Jeanty rushed for an impressive 209 yards on 32 carries and scored one touchdown, contributing to a 21-7 victory over UNLV.
This remarkable game capped off what many consider a Heisman Trophy-worthy season for Jeanty. Over the course of the season, he amassed 344 carries, totaling an astounding 2,497 rushing yards at an average of 7.3 yards per carry, and reached the end zone 29 times.
As the race for the prestigious Heisman Trophy heats up, Jeanty is seen as a leading contender alongside Travis Hunter, a talented wide receiver and cornerback from Colorado. Social media has been abuzz with supporters advocating for Jeanty, drawing parallels between his impressive season and those of historically great college running backs.
Fans of college football recall the unforgettable 2014 season of Melvin Gordon, a Wisconsin running back whose outstanding performance was overlooked when he lost the Heisman to Oregon’s Marcus Mariota. This close contest has sparked discussions about the perceived legitimacy of the award, leading figures like Montee Ball to express that the Heisman lost some credibility following the outcome of Gordon’s candidacy.
Jeanty’s milestone season is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in his career, and while he may face tough competition, the similarities between his achievements and Gordon’s legendary season suggest he could also be in contention for the trophy.
Looking ahead, Jeanty’s performance in the College Football Playoff could further solidify his standing as a top candidate for the Heisman, perhaps even putting him in a historic position if he continues to excel on the field.
This story highlights not only Jeanty’s incredible skills but also the journey many talented athletes navigate in pursuit of recognition for their hard work and achievements in college football.