Desmond Howard Tells Travis Hunter What Makes a Heisman Contender Truly Stand Out: “Don’t Disappear in the Big Games”

It seems almost everyone is rooting for Colorado Buffaloes’ two-way star Travis Hunter to win the Heisman Trophy this year. But what does it take for a college athlete to stand out as a prospect for the prestigious award? Hunter sought out an answer from a former Heisman winner — Desmond Howard.

The former Super Bowl MVP and winner explained a parameter using which he judges if an athlete truly is deserving of the top honor.

“We like the new member to be really special, really unique…The way I judge Heisman candidates is not just what you do but also who you do it against,” said Howard on The Travis Hunter Show.

Hunter sure fits Howard’s bill. Playing as both a WR and a cornerback, he stands out not only with his ability to play both sides of the ball, but also excelling in each role. A truly special talent.

Howard further highlighted the importance of standing out on the field as an individual during matchups with worthy opponents.

“There are a lot of people who pad stats by playing against inferior opponents. But then where are you in the big games? Don’t disappear in the big games,” added the former star wide receiver.

Hunter most definitely doesn’t disappear when the stakes are high. Whether he’s playing against a strong opposition or a weaker one, the Buffs’ superstar knows when and how to pull out the big guns. Considering that Hunter fits Howard’s criteria to the T, he can perhaps look forward to having the former Heisman winner’s vote locked down.

Ahead of Week 14, Hunter is the clear favorite for the award. FanDuel Sportsbook‘s updated Heisman odds place Hunter ahead of all his competition at a whopping -800.