Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter is one of the players firmly in the conversation for the Heisman Trophy.
Thus far, Hunter has caught 49 passes for 587 yards and six touchdowns on offense while recording 17 tackles, two interceptions, three pass breakups and one forced fumble at cornerback. He injured his shoulder in last weekend’s loss to Kansas State, but the hope is that the projected NFL first-round draft pick will be able to play against Arizona on Saturday. Hunter can’t afford to miss time if he wants to close the gap on Heisman favorite Ashton Jeanty.
Some have suggested that dislike for Colorado head coach Deion Sanders could hamper Hunter’s Heisman candidacy. During an appearance on the “Outta Pocket with RGIII” podcast this week, Hunter admitted he’s considered that possibility.
“I feel like that too. I told him that, but I don’t want to talk about that because it will probably hinder me some more,” Hunter said with a laugh.
Travis Hunter on his Heisman chances being hindered by the hate some people have for Deion Sanders,
“Nobody did anything that I’ve done and put up the numbers that I have put up on both sides of the ball….There’s a lot of people that don’t like us though.”@TravisHunterJr pic.twitter.com/df4VnmQ0r2
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) October 17, 2024
At the same time, Hunter made it clear he feels his versatility sets him apart from any other Heisman contenders.
“They’ve got to understand that nobody did anything that I’ve done and put up the numbers that I have put up on both sides of the ball,” Hunter said. “I want them to understand that.”
“I know I can win it, but I don’t know who’s there,” Hunter added when asked if he thought he could win. “I mean y’all see Ashton Jeanty, it’s not like we haven’t seen a running back that’s good. We haven’t seen a player that plays both ways and I’m gonna keep saying that.”
The 2024 Heisman Trophy ceremony is set for Saturday, Dec. 14 at 8 p.m. ET.
Related: Travis Hunter’s Fiancée Goes Viral Before Colorado-Kansas State Game