Ashton Jeanty’s rise from Heisman afterthought to one of the most dominant forces in college football has been nothing short of extraordinary. At the start of the 2024 season, few could have anticipated that Boise State’s star running back would be making a serious run at the Heisman Trophy, especially from a school outside the Power Five conferences. Yet, with a season defined by unforgettable performances and record-breaking achievements, Jeanty has proven to belong in the conversation.
Breaking Records and Surpassing Legends
Jeanty, a 30-year-old junior from Boise State, is having a nearly unparalleled season in college football history. He has rushed for an astounding 2,497 yards and scored 29 touchdowns, surpassing USC legend Marcus Allen for the fourth-most yards in a single season. His remarkable production has catapulted him into Heisman contention and put him on track to challenge the all-time rushing yards record held by Barry Sanders, set in 1988.
But Jeanty’s impact goes far beyond his gaudy statistics. His all-around game has been a critical factor in Boise State’s remarkable 12-1 season. His performance has driven the Broncos to the top of the Mountain West Conference, securing their place in the College Football Playoff as one of the top 12 teams in the country. With a first-round bye in the expanded playoff system, Jeanty and the Broncos have exceeded expectations, proving they belong among the nation’s elite.
A Heisman-Worthy Performance in the Mountain West Championship
Jeanty showcased his skill set in Boise State’s 21-7 victory over No. 20 UNLV to capture the Mountain West Championship. The game’s turning point came just before halftime when Jeanty broke loose for a 75-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Broncos a commanding lead. He finished the game with 209 rushing yards and a touchdown, overpowering a Rebels defence that had been ranked 10th nationally in rushing defence and had allowed just 3.2 yards per carry on the season.
This was the fifth 200-yard performance from Jeanty in 2024, a feat he has now accomplished in five games. His consistency has been remarkable, as he has exceeded 149 yards and a touchdown in every game this season except for one. His lone “off” game came when he was pulled after just 11 carries for 127 yards against Portland State, in which Boise State had no trouble securing the victory.
One of Jeanty’s most memorable performances came in a heartbreaking 37-34 loss to No. 1 Oregon. Despite the loss, Jeanty rushed for 192 yards and three touchdowns against an undefeated Oregon team. This performance exemplified Jeanty’s ability to perform under pressure and against some of the best defences in the country.
A Loyalty to Boise State and a Dream Season
While Jeanty had offers from SEC and Big Ten schools that would have far surpassed what he received from Boise State, he remained loyal to the Broncos. His decision to stay and lead Boise State to national prominence has added to his legendary status. In an interview with CBS Sports in July, Jeanty explained his motivation: “I hope my decision sheds a light on college football players at various schools. You don’t have to do what everybody else is doing.”
This sense of loyalty and commitment makes Jeanty’s case for the Heisman compelling. While he could have pursued more money and fame at a major program, he chose to build a legacy at Boise State. His decision benefits the program and sets a powerful example for future college football players.
Jeanty’s Heisman Case: A Historic Run
While Jeanty remains a distant second in Heisman odds behind Colorado’s Travis Hunter, his case for the award is strong. Hunter has had a spectacular season, ranking among the top five nationally in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns while excelling on defence. His impact has helped turn Colorado from a 4-8 team in 2023 to a 9-3 contender in 2024.
However, Jeanty’s case is equally deserving. His performance on the field has been historic, and his ability to carry Boise State to national relevance in a non-Power Five conference cannot be overlooked. His achievements are comparable to those of past Heisman winners, and in many seasons, his numbers would be enough to guarantee him the award.
If Jeanty doesn’t win the Heisman, it won’t diminish the greatness of his 2024 season. However, as the voting closes on December 14, it’s clear that Jeanty’s case is one of the most compelling in recent memory. A final Heisman nod would solidify his place in college football history, and there’s no doubt that he has earned it. Whether he wins or not, Jeanty has already proven himself to be one of the sport’s most impactful and inspiring players.
