2024 Heisman Trophy finalists: Key players, stats, ceremony details
The 2024 Heisman Trophy finalists, the award given to the season’s most outstanding player, were announced on December 9 during Monday Night Countdown. Four players have been invited to New York to compete for college football’s most prestigious individual award.
This year’s finalists include Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel, Colorado’s two-way star Travis Hunter, Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, and Miami quarterback Cam Ward.
The Heisman Trophy ceremony will take place on December 14 at 8 p.m. ET, airing live on ESPN.
Gabriel has been instrumental in Oregon’s undefeated season, securing the Big Ten Championship and the top seed in the College Football Playoff. A sixth-year senior, Gabriel became the NCAA’s all-time leader in total touchdowns (187) and career quarterback starts (62). His consistency and leadership make him a strong candidate for the award.
Hunter is a rare two-way player excelling on both sides of the ball. Named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and a first-team All-Big 12 selection on both offense and defense, he leads the nation in several key categories. His versatility and impact make him a favorite for the trophy.
Jeanty’s historic season includes breaking Boise State and Mountain West records for rushing yards and touchdowns. His 2,497 rushing yards are the second-most in FBS history for a regular season. Named Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year twice, Jeanty has dominated every game, including eight performances with over 200 rushing yards.
Ward set multiple school records, including passing touchdowns (36) and total passing yards (4,123). A standout in the ACC, Ward’s consistency and ability to direct one of the nation’s highest-scoring offenses have made him one of the top quarterbacks this year.
LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels claimed the Heisman Trophy in 2023. Daniels led the nation in total offense, passing efficiency, points responsible for, and rushing yards per carry. He threw for 3,812 yards with 40 passing touchdowns (tied for first) and added 1,134 rushing yards with 10 rushing touchdowns. Daniels became LSU’s third Heisman winner, joining Joe Burrow (2019) and Billy Cannon (1959).
The University of Southern California (USC) has the most Heisman Trophy winners, with eight recipients. Their latest winner, quarterback Caleb Williams, won the award in 2022. USC is followed by Ohio State, Oklahoma, and Notre Dame, each boasting seven winners.
Here’s a quick last 5 year recap of the Heisman Trophy winners:
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