In a surprising announcement earlier this week, it was revealed that star dual-threat receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter would not be a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award. Presented annually to the best defensive back in college football, many believed Hunter would be the latest name to win the prestigious award.
Instead, Texas Longhorns Jahdae Barron, Ohio State Buckeyes Caleb Downs, and Georgia Bulldogs Malaki Starks were the three finalists for the award. The winner of this coveted award will join a group of fellow winners that includes Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees and current NFL superstars, such as Hunter’s head coach, Deion Sanders, and Pittsburgh Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
College Football Fans React To Shocking Travis Hunter Omission
In a video released to YouTube, FOX sports analyst RJ Young discussed the decision to omit Hunter on his popular “The Number One College Football Show” account. Young stated that “none of those dudes have done what Travis Hunter has done.”
While social media tends to have opinions on both sides of any debate, this situation has largely defended Hunter and agrees with Young’s opinions.
In the comments, one individual supported Hunter and believed he should be a finalist, despite himself residing in Texas.
“I live in Texas and a big Texas fan but Travis is the best defensive player in college football no one throws at him people need to stop hating.”
Another user explained how Hunter still has ridiculous statistics despite not being targeted by opposing quarterbacks.
“Him being snubbed for the Thorpe award is madness. Dude doesn’t even get the ball thrown his way, and still has 3 picks on the season. 🤯”
“You are so correct. If there were true analysis placing the player name on the list for an award. They should judge with no prejudice towards a player or their coach. It’s about the best athlete at a position but we know the true answer to that one. Travis cause the best wide receiver on the opposing team to be taken out of the equation because he is covering the guy.
“They are not going to throw the ball towards him. One day there will be honest people judging with no malice in their heart.”
Hunter is having a noteworthy statistical campaign defensively, despite being completely taken out of games by opposing quarterbacks.
Since the beginning of the season, it has been evident that opposing QBs would prefer to avoid Hunter as much as possible, resulting in minimal passes being attempted to his side of the field.
Despite the shocking finalist snub, Hunter has three interceptions on the season, with one forced fumble to add to his already prolific profile.