As Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez prepares for the College Football Playoff, many believe he should be in New York. Regarded as the nation’s top defensive player, Rodriguez anchors an elite defense that maximizes his talents. Yet, some say his trophy case lacks a key accolade linking him to a legendary predecessor.
Why Is Jacob Rodriguez Considered the Top Heisman Snub?
“Defense wins championships” remains a core football axiom. Stars on defense earn praise, respect, and notoriety. The Heisman is college football’s top honor, yet only two defensive players have won it: Charles Woodson in 1997 and, last year, Travis Hunter. However, what won the award for both of them was their ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball.
Rodriguez’s exclusion brought to mind another linebacker for PFSN writer Ryan Guthrie. “Under his leadership, Texas Tech’s defense earned a team impact grade of 95.6 (No. 4 nationally), allowed just 3.9 yards per play (No. 2), and gave up only 10.92 points per game, one of the stingiest marks in the country,” Guthrie wrote.
“For context, Rodriguez’s season compares closely to Manti Te’o’s 2012 Heisman runner-up campaign. Te’o had 113 tackles, seven INTs, and no forced fumbles or fumble recoveries. Rodriguez matched or exceeded several of these numbers while leading a top-tier defensive unit that won its conference, highlighting his Heisman-caliber impact.”
Guthrie concluded, “If there was ever a defensive player deserving of a seat in New York, it was Rodriguez.”
Te’o’s 2012 season is widely regarded as one of the best for linebackers in recent memory, featuring standout performances across 13 games. The Irish defense allowed more than 20 points only twice that year. In comparison, Rodriguez’s 2025 campaign arguably surpasses it, as he enables the Red Raiders’ defense to excel at all three levels and produce game-changing tackles, strengthening his case alongside Te’o.
MORE: 3 Biggest Heisman Trophy Snubs Include Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez
Despite not being the biggest defender, listed at 6-foot-1 and 230 pounds, the senior can shed tackles and attack the gaps without impediment. One stat stands out: Rodriguez forced seven fumbles, the fifth-most in a season since 2005, per College Football Reference. Usually, edge rushers and defensive ends dominate this category.
Rodriguez won’t be on stage for Saturday’s Heisman Trophy ceremony. However, he’s focused on trying to win a national title, if Texas Tech can navigate the College Football Playoff. The Red Raiders will play the winner of the Alabama vs. Oklahoma game on Jan. 1 in the Orange Bowl. Kickoff is slated for noon ET, with coverage available on ESPN.
