The Colorado Buffaloes might have failed to live up to the giant hopes orchestrated by their new head coach Deion Sanders, but few young athletes have been able to shine brightly and push their way through the setbacks. While Shedeur Sanders became the most sacked quarterback in college football history, he also achieved numerous personal accolades, even setting fresh ones in passing records. 

Colorado’s versatile two-way star, Travis Hunter, continues to amass accolades and honors for his outstanding performance. Following his first-team All-Pac-12 recognition and the 2023 Paul Hornung Award for the most versatile player in college football, Hunter has now added yet another notable accolade to his already outstanding resume. 

Travis Hunter is Colorado’s first-team All-American

This marks a significant achievement for Colorado football, with the last first-team All-American being OT Nate Solder in 2010. Hunter, weighing in at 6 feet 1 inch and 185 pounds, made history as the first player in the program to earn first-team honors at the all-purpose position. Notably, he excelled in both cornerback and wide receiver roles, playing more snaps from scrimmage in the regular season than any other player in FBS.

Hunter’s stellar performance this season has earned him the distinction of being one of the four Pac-12 players named to the first-team AP All-American, further solidifying his status as one of the conference’s standout players. Additionally, he secured a place among the five players named to the FWAA’s first team. The consensus of All-American honors, determined by five reputable publications–the Walter Camp, AP, FWAA, Sporting News, and AFCA–underscore Hunter’s exceptional contributions on the field. Much like his dual ability, Hunter received dual recognition as First-Team All-Pac-12 on the defensive front, showcasing his versatility and prowess on both sides of the ball.

Travis Hunter is a true two-way star 

Hunter’s impact on the field was extraordinary, embodying the essence of a true two-way player. Serving as a full-time starter on both offense and defense, he showcased his versatility by playing an impressive 436 snaps on offense, 566 snaps on defense, and an additional 30 snaps on special teams, averaging an astounding 119 snaps per game. Despite missing three games due to an unfortunate liver injury early into the regular season, the sophomore sensation proved his mettle on the offensive front, finishing second on the team with 57 catches for 721 yards and contributing five touchdowns.

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Defensively, the Jackson State transfer demonstrated his prowess by tying for the team lead in interceptions with three and leading the Buffaloes in pass breakups with five. In addition to his contributions in coverage, Hunter amassed 31 total tackles, showcasing his well-rounded defensive skills. Coach Deion Sanders, the new head of Colorado, acknowledging Hunter’s exceptional talent, referred to him as a “special player” and a “generational player” who has truly transformed the game. Sanders emphasized the strategic utilization of Hunter on both sides of the ball to maximize his strengths and unleash his force on the field. Looking ahead, Hunter emerges as an early contender for the Heisman Trophy in the upcoming season, a testament to his outstanding skills and impact. 

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