Travis Hunter Leads Heisman Race Amid Jim Thorpe Award Snub

Colorado's two-way star dominates on both sides of the ball, but his omission from the Thorpe Award finalist list has drawn sharp criticism.

Travis Hunter, a standout for Colorado, is the leading candidate for the Heisman Trophy, with unprecedented performances as both a wide receiver and cornerback.
Despite being a Heisman favorite, Hunter was left off the finalist list for the Jim Thorpe Award, which recognizes the nation's top defensive back, sparking widespread criticism.
Deion Sanders, Colorado's head coach and a former Thorpe Award winner, called Hunter's omission 'idiotic' and offered to give Hunter his own Thorpe trophy in protest.
Hunter has achieved remarkable stats this season, including 82 receptions for 1,036 yards and 11 touchdowns on offense, alongside three interceptions and nine pass breakups on defense.
Colorado remains bowl-eligible, and both Hunter and quarterback Shedeur Sanders plan to play in a postseason game, despite their projected status as top NFL Draft picks.