Boise State’s standout running back Ashton Jeanty played a pivotal role in securing the Broncos’ spot in the College Football Playoff with an impressive performance in the Mountain West title game. Rushing for 209 yards on 32 carries and scoring one touchdown, Jeanty’s contributions led the team to a solid 21-7 victory over UNLV.
This remarkable outing adds to what has been a Heisman Trophy-caliber season for Jeanty. His stats for the year, prior to the impending College Football Playoff games, include a staggering 344 carries, 2,497 rushing yards, an average of 7.3 yards per carry, and an impressive 29 rushing touchdowns.
As the Heisman race heats up, the competition seems to be narrowing down to two frontrunners: Jeanty and Colorado’s standout wide receiver/cornerback, Travis Hunter. Jeanty has garnered significant support on social media, with many fans drawing parallels between his stellar season and some of the best performances by running backs in college football history.
Fans of Wisconsin football are particularly aware of what could be seen as a historical “injustice” concerning the Heisman Trophy. In 2014, Melvin Gordon had a season that many believe deserved the prestigious award, ultimately losing to Oregon’s quarterback Marcus Mariota. This sentiment, echoed by former Badger player Montee Ball, highlights a lingering belief that the Heisman’s credibility was compromised when Gordon didn’t receive the honor.
Jeanty’s incredible season has drawn comparisons to Gordon’s 2014 performance, revealing striking similarities between the two. As the season progresses, the potential impact of the Heisman Trophy on Jeanty’s future is indeed significant, and fans are hoping that history doesn’t repeat itself in a manner that overlooks his incredible contributions on the field.
This narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing outstanding performances in college football and the potential implications for future athletes. With his strong showing and the enthusiasm surrounding his candidacy, Ashton Jeanty could well be on the path to rewriting history in the Heisman race.
In summary, Jeanty’s accomplishments have not only showcased his talent but also sparked a conversation about recognition in college football, leaving fans hopeful for his success in the upcoming awards.