Travis Hunter delivered a spectacular performance in Colorado’s 52-0 victory over Oklahoma State, further cementing his case for the Heisman Trophy. After the game, Hunter celebrated with fans, signing autographs, and taking pictures while chants of “Heisman!” echoed from the crowd. He was joined by his fiancée, Leanna Lenee, who wore a jacket with “HE12MAN” on the back, reflecting both Hunter’s jersey number and his Heisman aspirations. This dominant win marked the Buffaloes’ 9-3 regular season finish, with Hunter playing a key role in the victory.
Hunter’s performance was nothing short of remarkable, as he caught three touchdown passes and recorded an interception. Colorado coach Deion Sanders declared that Hunter had “clinched the Heisman” with his play, noting that Hunter had become the first player since at least 1996 to score three touchdowns and make an interception in a game. Hunter also broke Colorado’s single-season touchdown reception record, which now stands at 14, and tied the team’s single-game record for touchdowns. With his interception on the game’s opening series and two pass breakups, Hunter showcased his defensive prowess alongside his offensive contributions.
Hunter is in the running to become Colorado’s second Heisman winner, following Rashaan Salaam’s victory in 1994. Should he win, he would also become the first Heisman recipient to play full-time at a defensive position since Michigan’s Charles Woodson in 1997. In addition to the Heisman, Hunter is a finalist for the Maxwell Award, the Chuck Bednarik Award, and the Biletnikoff Award for the nation’s top receiver. He has proved himself consistently this season, playing both cornerback and wide receiver without much rest, often finishing games with multiple touchdowns and key defensive plays.
Hunter’s performance against Oklahoma State, which included a memorable early interception and two touchdown catches, was a defining moment in his campaign. As Deion Sanders put it, “Travis is him, man, Travis is that dude.” After the game, Shedeur Sanders, the team’s quarterback, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Hunter’s consistency and his impact on the team. Both Deion and Shedeur Sanders were supportive of Hunter’s Heisman bid, with Shedeur acknowledging his potential top competitor, Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, but insisting that no one else has matched Hunter’s all-around dominance.
For Hunter, the game marked an emotional conclusion to his regular season at Folsom Field. Deion Sanders reflected on the journey with his family, noting the ups and downs of their time together at Colorado, and acknowledging the significance of the moment. Despite the Heisman race being competitive, Hunter’s performance has left little doubt about his deserving place in college football’s elite.
