- NCAA. From Daddy's Boy to Mature Leader: Shedeur Sanders shoulders blame as Buffs face adversity
- NCAA. Travis Hunter could team up with a Super Bowl winner in 2025: Analyst reveals Buffaloes star's destination
Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders have ignited the college football world this season. Their standout performances have spearheaded the Colorado Buffaloes' resurgence, turning the team from a disappointing 4-8 in 2023 to an impressive 4-2 so far. Yet, despite their on-field heroics, not everyone believes they belong in the Heisman Trophy conversation.
Hunter, a dual-threat athlete excelling as both a wide receiver and cornerback, is often touted as a rare talent in college football. His versatility gives him a competitive edge, earning him a spot on many early watchlists.
Meanwhile, Sanders has emerged as one of the most promising quarterbacks in the nation, positioning himself as a likely first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Beyond statistics, Sanders' leadership has elevated Colorado into serious Big 12 contenders.
Hunter has logged 49 receptions for 587 yards and six touchdowns on offense while contributing defensively with 11 tackles, three passes defended, and two interceptions. Sanders has completed 172 of 237 passes, amassing 2,018 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. Despite these accomplishments, some experts remain unconvinced of their Heisman worthiness.
Danny Kanell's controversial list
CBS Sports analyst Danny Kanell caused a stir with his latest top-five Heisman candidate list, which excluded Hunter and Sanders. Kanell's list, posted on X (formerly Twitter), featured Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel in the top spot, followed by Cam Ward (QB, Miami), Ashton Jeanty (RB, Boise State), Cade Klubnik (QB, Clemson), and Diego Pavia (QB, Vanderbilt).
The exclusion of Hunter and Sanders sparked an immediate backlash from fans and analysts alike. Some questioned why Jeanty wasn't placed first, while others were baffled by Hunter's omission, considering his standout two-way performance.
Analyzing Kanell's choices
Kanell's choice to crown Gabriel, despite his inconsistent season, has drawn sharp criticism. Gabriel's solid outing in Oregon's 32-21 win over Ohio State boosted his visibility, but many argue it was his only standout performance so far.
Ward has been more consistent, leading Miami to the sixth spot in the AP rankings, while Jeanty's incredible rushing season has some predicting he could break Barry Sanders' legendary 1988 record.
Clemson's Cade Klubnik, despite a rocky start, helped his team bounce back into the top 10. Meanwhile, Pavia, with modest stats but a low turnover rate, has guided Vanderbilt into contention for the College Football Playoff.
The snub of Hunter and Sanders has intensified debates around this year's Heisman race. As the Buffaloes continue their remarkable season, their stars may still have a chance to silence the doubters-and perhaps even force their way back into the Heisman conversation.