The 2024 season is definitely going in the history of the Colorado Buffs. When was the last time they played like this? 9-3! The record speaks. No doubt, Coach Prime plays a huge role in Buffs’ achievement. But could he reach here without his dual-threat star? Well, all of us know the answer. Travis Hunter has performed exceptionally this season. Even his injury could not stop him from leading the Heisman race.
But is he getting enough recognition? We keep seeing rival fans undermining his season to give an edge to other players in the Heisman race. This includes all the ridiculous arguments mocking his ‘most snaps played’ or ability to play both sides. Go through the comment section of any post featuring Ashton Jeanty and Travis; you’ll see these replies. Travis Hunter, not known to keep his words to himself, has responded.
Hunter shared a post on his Instagram story in which he is leading in receiving grades with 88.3 and leading the coverage with 90.9. But that’s not it. He tagged Deion Sanders and wrote, “What They Gone Say now 😂.”
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It’s the only question that needs to be asked. In reality, there should be absolutely zero doubt that the Buffs’ No. 12 is a generational talent. We don’t see his type in football. Just imagine the sheer fitness it requires to play both sides. That’s not it. Add to that the complexity of being brilliant at both things. You force a turnover by intercepting? Congratulations! You’re playing the next play on offense.
Travis Hunter had outshines on both sides of the field this season and finished the season with 10 receptions for 116 yards and scored three touchdowns. His remarkable performances include 92 catches for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns.
That makes it even more ridiculous that Hunter wasn’t considered for the Jim Thorpe Award, which is given to the top defensive back, realized its finalists, and Hunter was not part of it. Yes! That raised significant questions. He was not fighting the haters alone. Of course, Deion Sanders always stood by him and defended him.
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Deion Sanders continues to defend Travis Hunter
During the midseason, many experts and insiders doubted Hunter and his position in the Heisman race despite his impressive performances. However, Deion Sanders has frequently voiced concerns about whether Hunter is being overlooked simply because he plays for Colorado under his leadership.
Hunter was the number one cornerback, but as soon as he joined the Buffs, his position was dropped to number eight in the On3 list. Marca reported Sanders’s statement, “You can’t punish him because he plays for me.”
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This is not the first time Sanders had to defend Hunter. Although there are many players who gained lots of attention this season, Hunter has been clearly somewhat overlooked. His dual roles of wide receiver and cornerback make him unique, and he has justified his role during his time with the Buffs. As he enters the NFL draft, we are sure Sanders will miss him, but who is going to be the next lucky coach?
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Travis Hunter snubbed for the Jim Thorpe Award—are the critics blind to his dual-threat brilliance?
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Travis Hunter snubbed for the Jim Thorpe Award—are the critics blind to his dual-threat brilliance?
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