College football award season is just getting started, and fans expect top Heisman contender Travis Hunter in almost every possible category. This comes after Hunter put on an impressive display on both sides of the ball this season.
On Tuesday, Buffaloes beat reporter Brian Howell updated that Hunter has made the final list for the Hornung, Biletnikoff, Bednarik, Maxwell, and Walter Camp awards. However, he couldn’t make the final list for the Thorpe Award.
Fans Couldn’t Believe Travis Hunter’s Snub for Jim Thorpe Award
Since 1986, the Jim Thorpe Award has been given to the best defensive back in college football. Hunter is leading the race for the Heisman Trophy and is also expected to be a top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. As such, his not making the final cut for the Thorpe Award was a little shocking for fans.
Colorado’s Travis Hunter has been named a finalist for the Biletnikoff, Bednarik, Maxwell and Walter Camp awards. Somehow he didn’t make the finalist cut for the Thorpe Award. He was also previously announced as a finalist for the Hornung Award. #CUBuffs
— Brian Howell (@BrianHowell33) November 26, 2024
“Got totally robbed for finalist of the Thorpe. playing slot and boundary CB and giving up less than 150 yards (less than 15 ypg) all season,” one fan thought Hunter was robbed.
“Can’t wait to see Boise [State] fans seize on him not being a finalist for the Thorpe,” another wrote.
“Hi, he’s a bednarik but not a Thorpe is shocking,” another fan commented.
“Him and Will johnson not making it is disgusting ngl,” another added.
The three finalists for the Jim Thorpe Award are as follows:
- Jahdae Barron, Texas
- Caleb Downs, Ohio State
- Malaki Starks, Georgia
How Has Travis Hunter Performed This Season?
As a wide receiver, Hunter leads the Buffaloes’ receiving corps with 1,036 yards (on 82 receptions) and 11 touchdowns. Meanwhile, on defense, he has made 30 tackles, 19 solo tackles, along with nine passes defended, three interceptions, and one forced fumble.
Hunter’s performance helped Colorado secure bowl eligibility for the first time since 2016. If not for last week’s surprise loss against Kansas, Colorado would also be eyeing a potential spot in the playoffs.
Despite the loss, the two-way star saw a spike in his Heisman odds, going from -400 to -900, according to FanDuel. This comes after another spectacular performance where he caught eight passes for 125 yards and two touchdowns.
Another consistent performance this week against Oklahoma State should solidify him for the honor.