Overview
- Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire renewed his public case on Nov. 11, invoking 2024 winner Travis Hunter to argue that Rodriguez deserves Heisman consideration.
- Former winner Robert Griffin III said a defensive player could win this year and placed Rodriguez at No. 1 on his personal Heisman list.
- Patrick Mahomes amplified the campaign by posting “Get him to New York!” after attending Texas Tech’s 29-7 win over BYU.
- Rodriguez fueled the BYU win with 14 tackles, one tackle for loss, an interception and a fumble recovery as the Red Raiders limited the Cougars to 255 yards.
- Season production cited in coverage includes 88 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, seven forced fumbles and three interceptions, with Texas Tech now 9-1 even as no linebacker has ever won the Heisman.