Ashton Jeanty, the Boise State Broncos’ dynamic running back, concluded the 2024 season with a record-breaking performance, accumulating an astounding 2,497 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, leading the Broncos to a coveted spot in the College Football Playoff. His phenomenal statistics would have undoubtedly secured him the Heisman Trophy in any other year. However, 2024 presented a unique challenge in the form of two-way sensation Travis Hunter and his Colorado teammate, Shedeur Sanders. Despite a fiercely competitive race, Jeanty ultimately finished as the Heisman runner-up to Hunter, who etched his name in history as the second two-way player to claim the prestigious award after Michigan legend Charles Woodson. This also marked the first instance of a non-quarterback winning the Heisman since DeVonta Smith’s victory in 2020.
Jeanty, while acknowledging Hunter’s remarkable achievement, expressed his belief that his own performance warranted the Heisman Trophy. He conveyed his disappointment yet extended his congratulations to Hunter, emphasizing his determination to work even harder in the future. This sentiment, coupled with his exceptional season, underscores Jeanty’s unwavering commitment to excellence and his drive to achieve even greater heights in his football career. He received 309 first-place votes, a testament to his impactful season, yet fell short of the ultimate prize. This near-miss, however, has only fueled Jeanty’s motivation, reinforcing his conviction that this is just the beginning of his journey, not the end.
Despite missing out on the Heisman, Jeanty’s remarkable season garnered him significant recognition. He was honored with the Maxwell Award, recognizing him as the best player in college football, and the Doak Walker Award, cementing his status as the nation’s premier running back. These accolades reflect his dominant performance and the indelible mark he left on the 2024 season. His dedication and hard work propelled the Boise State Broncos to the Mountain West Conference championship and secured them a bye into the quarterfinals of the College Football Playoff, where they await the victor of the SMU-Penn State matchup.
Ashton Jeanty’s 2024 season stands as a testament to his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and unwavering commitment to the sport. While the Heisman Trophy eluded him, his record-breaking performance, combined with the recognition he received through the Maxwell and Doak Walker Awards, underscores his status as one of the most remarkable players in college football. His journey is far from over, and the lessons learned from this season will undoubtedly shape his future endeavors, propelling him toward even greater accomplishments in the years to come.
The backdrop of Jeanty’s exceptional season is unfortunately tinged with the tragic news of the passing of Gleaton Jones, a former Georgia running back and national champion, at the young age of 21. While unrelated to Jeanty’s Heisman pursuit, this somber event serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment. The college football community mourns the loss of a promising young talent whose contributions to the sport will be remembered.
Jeanty’s journey in the 2024 season, filled with both triumph and disappointment, underscores the complex and often unpredictable nature of athletic competition. His dedication, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of excellence are qualities that resonate beyond the football field, inspiring not only his teammates but also fans and aspiring athletes everywhere. As he looks towards the future, Jeanty carries with him the valuable lessons learned from this season, ready to embrace new challenges and continue his pursuit of greatness. The football world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in his remarkable story.
