Colorado coach Deion Sanders is furious that his star player, Travis Hunter, was not named a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, which honors the nation’s top defensive back. In a passionate response on Tuesday, Sanders, a former winner of the award, said Hunter’s performance clearly warranted a spot. The coach was so incensed by the snub that he even offered to give his own 1988 trophy to Hunter as a sign of respect and protest.
Coach Prime’s Outrage over the Snub
Deion Sanders did not hold back his feelings when he learned Travis Hunter was left off the list of finalists for the prestigious award. His disbelief was clear to everyone present.
“How is Travis Hunter not a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award?” he asked. Sanders, who established a legendary career after winning the award at Florida State, felt the decision was a major oversight by the selection committee.
He took his support a step further with a remarkable gesture. “You can have mine,” Sanders said, referring to his own trophy. “I ain’t using it, just sitting up there collecting dust.” This powerful statement highlights just how much he believes in his player’s talent and on-field impact.
Hunter’s Impressive Season by the Numbers
Despite the Thorpe Award disappointment, Travis Hunter’s season has been nothing short of spectacular, earning him recognition for numerous other national awards. His statistics on both sides of the ball make a strong case for him being one of the most dynamic players in college football.
Defensively, Hunter has been a true lockdown corner with three interceptions and nine pass breakups. His impact was felt in critical moments, like when he forced a game-ending fumble in an overtime victory against Baylor.
His versatility is a key reason he’s a finalist for several other major honors:
- Maxwell Award (most outstanding player)
- Biletnikoff Award (best receiver)
- Bednarik Award (top defensive player)
- Paul Hornung Award (most versatile)
- Walter Camp Award (player of the year)
On top of these nominations, Hunter is also considered a favorite for the Heisman Trophy. His offensive production includes an incredible 82 catches for 1,036 yards and 11 touchdowns, making him a primary weapon for quarterback Shedeur Sanders.
A Scary Moment for Shedeur Sanders
The Colorado team faced a tense moment during last Saturday’s game against Kansas. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders was hit low by defensive end Dean Miller after releasing a pass, a play that took out his legs and looked potentially serious.
Thankfully, Shedeur avoided any injury from the hit. In a display of good sportsmanship, Coach Sanders revealed that both Kansas coach Lance Leipold and the player, Dean Miller, reached out to express their concern. Miller is expected to apologize to Shedeur in person.
“He’s going to apologize, and Shedeur is going to accept it,” Coach Sanders stated, emphasizing a desire to move on. “Let’s not make a big deal out of something that happened in the heat of the battle.”
What’s Next for Hunter and Sanders?
With the regular season winding down, speculation is growing about the futures of Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders. Both players are projected to be high picks in the upcoming NFL draft, and Friday’s game against Oklahoma State could be their last home game in a Colorado uniform.
However, Coach Sanders was quick to push back on that idea. “It’s not the last time you’re going to see them in a Buff uniform,” he insisted. He suggested that even if the team doesn’t reach the Big 12 title game, a potential bowl game appearance is still on the table.
The focus remains on finishing the season strong. “We’re going to fight and try to go out there and kick some butt,” Sanders concluded.
