NCAAF Odds: 2024 Heisman Trophy Finalists

Share News

NCAAF Odds and News

2024 Heisman Trophy Finalists: Travis Hunter Leads Historic Group

The 2024 Heisman Trophy finalists were announced Monday, showcasing an exceptional group of players representing diverse skill sets and positions. 

Colorado’s two-way star Travis Hunter, Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel, and Miami quarterback Cam Ward are set to compete for college football’s most prestigious individual award, to be handed out Saturday in New York. 

With NCAAF Lines favoring Hunter, this year’s ceremony promises to be a departure from recent quarterback-dominated outcomes.

Travis Hunter: The Favorite for the Heisman

Hunter enters as the clear front-runner with NCAAF Odds at -50000. In a season defined by his versatility, the Colorado standout has delivered elite performances on both sides of the ball under head coach Deion Sanders. 

Offensively, Hunter ranks fifth nationally with 92 receptions, sixth in receiving yards at 1,152, and second in touchdown receptions with 14. On defense, he has added four interceptions, tying him for 17th in the nation, and his 11 passes defended rank eighth.

Hunter’s two-way dominance draws comparisons to Charles Woodson, Michigan’s 1997 Heisman winner. Woodson was primarily a defensive player with limited offensive contributions, while Hunter has significantly impacted both facets of the game. If he wins, Hunter would be the first non-quarterback Heisman winner since Alabama’s DeVonta Smith in 2020 and the first primarily defensive player since Woodson.

Ashton Jeanty: Historic Campaign for Boise State

Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty is also making a compelling case, aiming to become the first running back to win the Heisman since Derrick Henry in 2015. Jeanty has racked up 2,497 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns, leading the Mountain West champion Broncos to a 12-1 record and a No. 3 seed in the College Football Playoff. 

He is closing in on Barry Sanders’ single-season rushing record of 2,628 yards, though Sanders achieved his feat in just 11 games during his 1988 Heisman-winning season.

Jeanty’s dominant season has drawn attention to the dwindling presence of running backs in the Heisman conversation. His blend of power and finesse has carried Boise State to a historic year, with the backfield phenom emerging as one of the sport’s most electrifying players.

Cam Ward: Miami’s Offensive Catalyst

Miami quarterback Cam Ward seemed poised to win the Heisman for much of the season, leading the Hurricanes to contention for an ACC title and Playoff berth. The Washington State transfer has accumulated 4,123 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions, all while commanding the No. 1 offense in the nation. 

However, Miami’s late-season stumbles, including two losses in their final three games, have somewhat cooled the momentum behind Ward’s candidacy.

Despite the setbacks, Ward’s numbers remain exceptional, and his ability to elevate Miami’s offense cannot be overlooked. He has solidified his reputation as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in the country, making him a key contender.

Dillon Gabriel: Oregon’s Veteran Leader

Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel rounds out the finalists after an impressive season leading the Ducks to a Big Ten title. In his sixth year of college football, Gabriel has thrown for 3,558 yards, 28 touchdowns, and added seven rushing scores.

His performances against top-tier opponents have been particularly notable. He has 918 yards, eight touchdowns, and zero interceptions in victories over Ohio State, Michigan, and Penn State.

Gabriel’s career journey has been marked by resilience and adaptability. He transferred from UCF to Oklahoma before finding his stride at Oregon. He is now closing in on the all-time FBS record for career passing yards, underscoring his impact on the sport.

A Rare Non-Quarterback Winner?

With Hunter and Jeanty leading the field, this year’s Heisman race marks a significant departure from the quarterback dominance of the past two decades. Since 2000, 20 quarterbacks have won the award, with only three running backs and one wide receiver breaking the trend. The 2024 finalists reflect a broader diversity of talent, promising a memorable ceremony on Saturday night.