Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty delivered an outstanding performance on Friday night, leading his team to a 21-7 victory over UNLV in the Mountain West Championship game. With 32 carries for 209 yards and a touchdown, Jeanty’s efforts secured a place for the Broncos in the College Football Playoff.
This remarkable game adds to Jeanty’s impressive season, positioning him as a serious contender for the Heisman Trophy. His remarkable stats for the year, excluding the forthcoming playoff games, show he has amassed 344 carries for a staggering 2,497 rushing yards, averaging 7.3 yards per carry, and scoring 29 touchdowns.
The race for the Heisman Trophy seems to be shaping up as a close contest between Jeanty and Colorado’s standout receiver and cornerback Travis Hunter. Social media is abuzz with supporters advocating for Jeanty’s candidacy, likening his season to some of the greatest running back performances in college football history.
A notable comparison arises with Melvin Gordon’s 2014 season at Wisconsin, which many fans believe deserved the Heisman after his record-breaking year. Despite an impressive season that should have garnered the award, it was given to Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota instead. Former player Montee Ball has voiced a common sentiment among fans, claiming that the award lost its credibility with Gordon’s loss.
The parallels between Jeanty’s season and Gordon’s are striking, raising the question of whether history might repeat itself and lead to another controversial Heisman decision. As excitement builds around the College Football Playoff and the Heisman race, fans can remain hopeful that Jeanty’s extraordinary season will be recognized appropriately.
In summary, Jeanty’s exceptional season and performance may not only lead Boise State to greater heights but also inspire a new wave of recognition for outstanding running backs in college football.