Travis Hunter, one of college football’s standout players, is not even wearing a Heisman crown yet, but the scrutiny and cynicism surrounding him are palpable. Recently, this cynicism took a playful but pointed turn when Oregon’s mascot, “The Duck,” made a bold statement on The Pat McAfee Show. Amid the excitement, the mascot threw shade at Hunter, suggesting that Ashton Jeanty should win the Heisman Trophy instead, claiming that “Snaps ain’t a stat.” This jab was a clear reference to Hunter’s reputation for playing an extraordinary number of snaps in every game.
The comment did not sit well with Deion Sanders Jr., a staunch supporter of Hunter. He took to social media to call out the unnecessary focus on Colorado, pointing out that Oregon, the top-ranked team in the nation, had already defeated Colorado convincingly last season. Sanders Jr. questioned why the Oregon mascot seemed fixated on them, calling the behavior “weird.”
Hunter’s dual-role performance—excelling as both a cornerback and wide receiver—has made him a favorite for the Heisman. His extraordinary feats include playing almost every snap in games, making him a unique figure in college football. However, as highlighted by the Oregon mascot’s remarks, there’s a misconception that his Heisman candidacy is solely based on his playing time. This narrative downplays the tangible impact he has had on the game.
Yall are the #1 in the nation & yall whooped our ass last year… why tf is bro on there worried about us? Shit weird as hell https://t.co/sdzlbIdOWZ
— Deion Sanders Jr (@DeionSandersJr) December 6, 2024
On the other hand, Ashton Jeanty’s case for the Heisman is compelling in its own right. A dynamic running back, Jeanty has surpassed the statistical achievements of Derrick Henry’s 2015 Heisman-winning campaign. However, playing in the Mountain West conference has made it harder for his accomplishments to gain the same level of recognition as Hunter’s. Jeanty represents a traditional football archetype, while Hunter’s versatility and unprecedented two-way play set him apart as a “unicorn” in the sport.
Hunter’s defensive stats are remarkable: he has allowed only one touchdown all season, given up just 20 receptions for 187 yards, and allowed the fewest first downs to opposing receivers nationwide. Offensively, he ranks second in touchdowns and fifth in receiving yardage. These numbers underscore that his contributions go far beyond just being present on the field.
The Heisman race has become a hot topic of debate, with critics like the Oregon mascot questioning Hunter’s qualifications and others advocating for Jeanty’s recognition. Despite the noise, Hunter’s performance speaks volumes. He has already been honored as the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and earned spots on both the All-Big 12 Defense and Offense teams. These accolades reflect his unparalleled influence in college football.
The remarks on The Pat McAfee Show may have been intended to diminish Hunter’s achievements or highlight Jeanty’s, but they also serve as a reminder of Hunter’s dominance this season. Whether or not the critics accept it, Hunter is a leading contender for the Heisman, and his impact on the game is undeniable.