The top 10 Heisman seasons of all time showcase remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments in college football history. In 2024, a standout two-way player captivated fans by playing nearly every snap for his team, earning the prestigious award in a race that will be remembered for years to come.
Was Travis Hunter’s triumph among the greatest in Heisman lore? To explore this question, here are the 10 most impressive Heisman seasons, as highlighted by FOX Sports Research.
Louisville’s football program had not produced a Heisman winner in over a century, making Lamar Jackson’s 2016 victory especially significant. Not only did Jackson become the first player from Louisville to win the award, but he also led the Cardinals to national prominence. His impressive stats included 3,390 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and 1,538 rushing yards with 21 rushing touchdowns during the regular season. He even achieved an eight-touchdown game against Charlotte, showcasing his explosive talent.
Jackson’s most notable performance came against Clemson, where he scored three touchdowns, nearly leading his team to victory against the national champions. This stellar season propelled Jackson to -4000 odds just days before the Heisman ceremony.
9. Florida QB Tim Tebow (2007)
Tim Tebow’s inaugural Heisman-winning season in 2007 was nothing short of extraordinary. After serving as a backup during Florida’s championship run the previous year, he emerged as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. Tebow threw for 3,132 yards, 29 touchdowns, and only six interceptions, while also rushing for 838 yards and an SEC-record 22 rushing touchdowns. His 55 total touchdowns set a new SEC benchmark.
In 1981, Marcus Allen made a significant impact at USC, rushing for 2,342 yards and 22 touchdowns, a remarkable feat that solidified his legacy. Adding his bowl game performance, Allen’s total reached 2,427 rushing yards in just 12 games, ranking among the best in history. He notably rushed for over 200 yards in multiple games, including victories over top-ranked opponents.
7. Texas A&M QB Johnny Manziel (2012)
Johnny Manziel transformed Texas A&M’s fortunes in 2012, leading the team to an impressive 11-2 record in its inaugural SEC season. Manziel’s electrifying play resulted in 3,419 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 1,181 rushing yards, along with 19 rushing touchdowns. His defining moment came during a stunning upset against No. 1 Alabama, where he threw for two touchdowns and rushed for 93 yards, solidifying his status as a Heisman winner.
Tony Dorsett’s 1976 season at Pittsburgh was remarkable, as he rushed for a national-leading 1,948 yards and 21 touchdowns, securing the Heisman trophy after finishing fourth the previous year. His performance in the Sugar Bowl, where he rushed for 202 yards against Georgia, capped off a legendary college career.
5. Michigan DB/WR Charles Woodson (1997)
Charles Woodson’s 1997 season was remarkable for its versatility, as he played both defense and offense for Michigan. He recorded seven interceptions and contributed 231 receiving yards with three touchdowns, playing a crucial role in leading the Wolverines to a national championship. His memorable 77-yard punt return against Ohio State highlighted his playmaking ability, ultimately earning him the Heisman trophy in a tight race against Peyton Manning.
4. Auburn QB Cam Newton (2010)
3. Colorado WR/DB Travis Hunter (2024)
Travis Hunter’s historic 2024 season exemplified his dual-threat capabilities, playing a crucial role in Colorado’s success. He played an astounding 1,360 snaps, contributing significantly on both offense and defense. Hunter’s offensive stats included 94 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns, along with a rushing score. Defensively, he tallied 35 tackles, four interceptions, and several passes defended, showcasing his all-around talent.
While Hunter’s performance was extraordinary, he faced tough competition from a player who nearly broke the all-time rushing record. This remarkable season further emphasizes the significance of his Heisman victory.
Barry Sanders, who many consider one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, had an unforgettable Heisman season in 1988. He rushed for an astounding 2,628 yards and scored 37 touchdowns, setting NCAA records that still stand today while averaging 7.6 yards per carry.
HONORABLE MENTION
USC RB OJ Simpson (1968)
Georgia RB Herschel Walker (1982)
Nebraska RB Mike Rozier (1983)
Boston College QB Doug Flutie (1984)
Michigan WR Desmond Howard (1991)
Florida QB Danny Wuerffel (1996)
Texas RB Ricky Williams (1998)
USC RB Reggie Bush (2005)
Baylor QB Robert Griffin III (2011)
Oklahoma QB Kyler Murray (2018)
