Travis Hunter Emerges as Top Heisman Contender: A Two-Way Sensation

Travis Hunter: Heisman Trophy Frontrunner

As the college football season nears its end, Travis Hunter from Colorado emerges as the new favorite for the Heisman Trophy. Hunter is now listed around even money at sportsbooks, with some considering him the odds-on favorite.

His recent performance boosted his chances. In Week 11, he recorded nine catches for 99 yards and a touchdown against Texas Tech. Meanwhile, Cam Ward and the Miami Hurricanes experienced a surprising loss to Georgia Tech, diminishing Ward’s standing as the favorite.

Hunter is having a standout season, playing as both a wide receiver and cornerback. Before the season began, he had odds as high as 60-1. Even though the chance for a large payout has passed, betting on Hunter remains promising.

Dillon Gabriel from Oregon is Hunter’s closest competitor, with odds around +350. However, his stats aren’t typical for a Heisman winner, and Oregon must remain undefeated for him to have a legitimate chance. Ashton Jeanty from Boise State is also in the mix, but a Mountain West running back may struggle to gain voters’ support unless he breaks the all-time rushing record.

Historically, the Heisman Trophy has favored quarterbacks. Out of the last 18 winners, 15 have been signal-callers. However, Hunter is making a strong case as a non-quarterback candidate. He plays significantly more snaps than any other player and excels both as a receiver and cornerback.

Colorado’s late-game performance may not heavily impact Hunter’s candidacy. The Buffaloes are favored to win two of their final three games and lead the Big 12 betting odds. If they win the conference, Hunter’s chance of winning the Heisman improves significantly. Even if Colorado falters and misses the College Football Playoff, Hunter’s dual-threat capability may still earn him the award.

While he may not yield high odds now, betting on Hunter remains a smart choice. He is considered the best football player in the country.