What does it take to win Heisman when the odds are stacked against you? For Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders. It could be more than just their performances—it might come down to whether or not Deion Sanders‘ swagger, unapologetic attitude, and coaching style end up costing them the trophy of a lifetime. NFL legends Shannon Sharpe, AKA Uncle Shay, and Chad Johnson, AKA Ochocinco, raised a serious flag, warming Heisman voters not to let their personal beef with Coach Prime cloud their judgement.

On 17th November, during the live “Nightcap” podcast, Ocho went off, making it clear that personal vendettas shouldn’t be messing with the Heisman race. “I don’t want those that are in positions of power… I don’t want voters that are voting for the Heisman to allow their hatred or their dislike for Prime, his coaching style, and the way he carries himself… to affect that of the players that are deserving of that [*****] Heisman. Especially the number 12.”  Ocho said, sounding furious, hitting the nail on the head.

Ocho specifically mentioned Travis Hunter, urging that the kid deserves a fair shot at the trophy. “Let’s not do that, let’s not be egregious because of your personal vendetta against a head coach that’s done a [******] phenomenal job,” He added, calling for a fair assessment of Hunter’s exceptional talent.

The tension is real– Hunter, one of the most electrifying talents in college football, is killing it on both sides of the b-ll. And yet, there’s a worry that his coach’s larger-than-life persona could cost him the recognition he’s due.

The Former Cincinnati Bengals star wide receiver Johnson and The Broncos Hall-of-Famer tight end were not letting this blasphemy slide like that. They believe it’s about time that voter check their ego at their door. And reward the kid who deserves it, not the coach’s critics. Though it’s not clear-cut that Travis Hunter is the most deserved candidate, he leads the pack.

Heisman race for Travis Hunter and co

Week 12 of the college football season didn’t just bring some good games — it brought the heat. Travis Hunter, already making waves this season, showed up big-time in the Buffs 49-24 smackdown over Utah Utes. This dude is out here playing both sides like he’s Shohei Ohtani. Travis caught 5 catches for 55 yards, including a touchdown; on defense, he had three tackles and an interception. These are just stats, but if you watched the game, there were moments to make you sit up and say “Heisman-worthy.”

As the Buffs were trying to extend their lead in the second quarter, with 5:35 remaining, Coach Prime’s team faced a crucial 4th-and-8 situation on Utes’ 34-yard line. The Buffs went for it, and Shedeur launched the ball towards his No. 12. In between multiple defenders, Hunter catapulted through the air to make the play. That’s what you get with Prime Time’s two-way star: true breathtaking moments.

With odds of -360, Hunter’s solidifying his spot in the Heisman race. On the flip side, his tough competition. Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty, this 5’9 running back, is also having a historic season. And, putting up NCAA CFB 25 videogame numbers, — rushed for 159 yards and three touchdowns in a dominant win over San Jose State in Week 12. This kid literally carries his team on his back. At +400, he’s making the case, too. It’s a back-and-forth race between him and Travis Hunter each week. But Travis has had the edge over him in these last few weeks.

Then we got Dillon Gabriel, the Oregon Ducks quarterback. Who’s trying to keep the Ducks undefeated, but their weak win 16-13 over the (5-5) Wisconsin Badgers ain’t doing him a favor on the Heisman trophy. Zero touchdowns and an interception, that’s a big “Sorry, buddy, next year” for him. And speaking of falling off, Cam Ward of Miami Hurricanes was sitting at the top at one moment. Now, he pretty much waved goodbye to Heisman hopes after slipping a winnable game against Georgia Tech in Week 11.

As the season rolls on. It’s clear that Hunter’s two-way brilliance gives him an edge over his fellow competitors. Putting him in prime position to lift the trophy. But with voters always ready to throw curveballs, who knows how this thing will end?