BOISE, Idaho — In a remarkable display during the Mountain West Conference title game, Ashton Jeanty sliced through UNLV’s defense for a stunning 75-yard touchdown run. Yet, rather than pose for a Heisman moment, he allowed his performance on the field to speak for itself.
“I think the same thing week after week,” Jeanty remarked regarding the ongoing discussions surrounding the Heisman Trophy, after No. 10 Boise State triumphed over No. 19 UNLV with a score of 21-7, securing a place in the College Football Playoff. “Not only is this one of the best teams in the nation, but they’ve got one of the best players in the nation.”
On top of his touchdown, Jeanty racked up another 209 rushing yards, marking his sixth game this season with over 200 yards. This brought his total rushing yardage to an impressive 2,497 — just 132 yards shy of breaking Barry Sanders’ record for most rushing yards in a season under the FBS framework.
Boise State head coach Spencer Danielson enthusiastically joined Jeanty in celebration, sprinting along the sideline during that thrilling run. Post-game, he was vocal about Jeanty’s Heisman candidacy. “Regarding the Heisman, I ask all voters to please just watch the film, watch the stats,” Danielson stated. “That will demonstrate he’s the best football player in the country. If you’re a Heisman candidate, you should compete in a championship game. What he accomplished tonight reflects his impact on his team.”
This comment appeared to be a pointed reference to Travis Hunter from Colorado, who is considered a leading candidate for the Heisman but won’t feature in the Big 12 championship game nor the playoffs. Meanwhile, Jeanty’s journey continues, as he will advance into the playoffs, significantly after the Heisman ballots are completed. He now has the opportunity to cap off one of the most remarkable rushing seasons in FBS history.
“He demonstrates consistently that he is the best football player in the country, and I don’t think there is any competition,” Danielson asserted.
Jeanty’s remarkable presence at Boise State in this era dominated by NIL deals and transfer portals is as impressive as his extraordinary performance stats — 2,497 rushing yards, 29 touchdowns, with five runs exceeding 70 yards.
Choosing to return to Boise State despite numerous NIL offers from Power 4 schools last offseason, Jeanty embraced the opportunity to achieve something extraordinary with the Broncos.
Reflecting on the night’s experiences, he expressed his gratitude: “From the moment I woke up, that filled my thoughts,” Jeanty shared about his time at Boise State. “I felt immense appreciation for the program, the coaches, and the community, and all the support I received. I took in the entire experience throughout the game. It was incredible. I wouldn’t have wanted anything else to wrap up my time here.”
