The Four Heisman finalists revealed: Stars set for College Football's biggest night

The stage is set, and the brightest stars in college football are ready for their moment under the New York City lights. On Monday, the 2024 Heisman Trophy finalists were revealed, narrowing the race to four electrifying athletes: Oregon Ducksquarterback Dillon Gabriel, Colorado Buffaloes two-way standout Travis Hunter,Boise State Broncos running backAshton Jeanty, and Miami Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward.

These four players delivered unforgettable performances this season, cementing themselves as the best in the game. The prestigious Heisman Trophy, awarded annually to the most outstanding player in college football, will be presented on Saturday, Dec. 14, and all eyes are on Hunter, who many believe is the frontrunner.

Colorado's Travis Hunter has captured the nation's imagination with his historic two-way play. As a receiver, Hunter ranked fifth in the nation with 92 receptions, piling up 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns. On defense, opposing quarterbacks rarely dared to test him, but he still managed four interceptions, 11 breakups, and a game-changing forced fumble in overtime against Baylor. His impact helped lift the Buffaloes to a 9-3 record, their first winning season since 2016.

Ashton Jeanty: Record-Breaking Powerhouse

Boise State's Ashton Jeanty was a revelation this season, leading the FBS in rushing with 2,497 yards and 29 touchdowns. His 7.3 yards-per-carry average speaks to his ability to break defenses wide open, and his 344 carries powered the Broncos to a Mountain West title and a spot in the College Football Playoff as the No. 3 seed. With a chance to break Barry Sanders' single-season rushing record, Jeanty could make history as the first Boise State player to win the Heisman.

Quarterback Excellence: Gabriel and Ward

Dillon Gabriel led Oregon to a perfect 13-0 record, a Big Ten title, and the top seed in the playoff. His pinpoint accuracy (73.2% completion rate) and dual-threat ability (3,558 ing yards, 28 touchdowns, and seven rushing scores) made him the leader of the nation's most complete team.

Miami's Cam Ward, meanwhile, lit up the stat sheet with 4,123 ing yards and 36 touchdowns, ranking second and first in the nation, respectively. After leading the Hurricanes to a 10-2 record, Ward's dynamic play put him firmly in the Heisman conversation.

With four deserving finalists, the 2024 Heisman race promises to be one of the most competitive in years. While Hunter may be the favorite, Jeanty, Gabriel, and Ward have each carved their own legendary paths.