The 2024 college football season is officially in the books, and with it comes the celebration of the game’s best and brightest. From dominant individual performances to coaching masterclasses and everything in between, this year’s awards season has put a well-deserved spotlight on the players and coaches who defined the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff era.
Let’s break down the major award winners from the 2024 season - and yes, there’s one name that just keeps popping up.
Travis Hunter: A Season for the Ages
If there was one player who left an indelible mark on the 2024 season, it was Colorado’s Travis Hunter. The two-way superstar didn’t just win one major award - he cleaned house.
- Heisman Trophy - Most outstanding player in college football.
- Maxwell Award - College player of the year.
- Walter Camp Award - Yet another nod as the nation’s top player.
- Associated Press Player of the Year
- Sporting News Player of the Year
- Chuck Bednarik Award - Defensive player of the year (Maxwell Club).
- Lott IMPACT Trophy - Defensive impact player of the year.
- Paul Hornung Award - Most versatile player.
- Biletnikoff Award - Nation’s top wide receiver.
That’s not a résumé - that’s a coronation.
Hunter’s ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball was something we haven’t seen in a generation. He made highlight-reel catches, locked down elite receivers, and was the heartbeat of Colorado’s resurgence. Whether lining up at corner or wideout, Hunter was the kind of player who forced opposing coordinators to adjust their game plans - and even then, it often wasn’t enough.
Quarterbacks Who Delivered
While Hunter stole the spotlight, the quarterback play across the country was nothing short of electric.
- Cam Ward (Miami) took home the Davey O'Brien Award, recognizing him as the top quarterback in the nation. Ward’s ability to extend plays and make clutch throws was a driving force behind Miami’s offensive success.
- Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) earned the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, honoring the top upperclassman QB.
Sanders’ poise, leadership, and production helped elevate Colorado’s offense alongside Hunter.
Backfield Brilliance
Boise State’s Ashton Jeanty was another name that kept surfacing - and for good reason.
- Doak Walker Award - Best running back in the country.
- Maxwell Award finalist
- Heisman finalist
Jeanty’s combination of vision, burst, and toughness made him a nightmare for defenses all season long. His ability to carry the load for Boise State - and do it efficiently - was a huge reason for their success.
Dominant Defenders
Defense had its fair share of stars this season, and the awards reflect that.
- Kyle Kennard (South Carolina) won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, given by the Football Writers Association of America to the best defensive player. Kennard was a relentless force off the edge, constantly living in opponents’ backfields.
- Jalon Walker (Georgia) captured the Butkus Award, honoring the nation’s top linebacker. Walker was the centerpiece of Georgia’s always-elite defense, combining sideline-to-sideline speed with a nose for the ball.
- Jahdae Barron (Texas) took home the Jim Thorpe Award as the top defensive back. Barron’s instincts and playmaking ability were key to Texas’ defensive identity.
- Donovan Ezeiruaku (Boston College) earned the Ted Hendricks Award, recognizing the top defensive end in the country.
In the Trenches
Great teams are built from the inside out, and the 2024 award season didn’t forget the big men.
- Kelvin Banks Jr. (Texas) was a double winner, taking home both the Lombardi Award (best lineman) and the Outland Trophy (best interior lineman). Banks was a cornerstone for Texas’ offensive line, combining size, technique, and athleticism at an elite level.
- Seth McLaughlin (Ohio State) won the Rimington Trophy, recognizing the top center in college football.
- The Joe Moore Award, which goes to the best offensive line unit, was awarded to Army - a testament to discipline, cohesion, and physicality in the trenches.
Coaching Excellence
Curt Cignetti (Indiana) was the clear standout among head coaches this season, earning:
- Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year (FWAA)
- Sporting News Coach of the Year
Cignetti’s leadership in transforming Indiana’s program into a legitimate contender didn’t go unnoticed. He built a culture, elevated the talent, and delivered results - fast.
Special Teams and Versatility
- Kenneth Almendares (Louisiana) won the Lou Groza Award as the nation’s top placekicker.
- Eddie Czaplicki (USC) took home the Ray Guy Award for top punter.
- Tyler Warren (Penn State) earned the John Mackey Award as the best tight end - and was also a finalist for the Paul Hornung Award, showing off his versatility.
Recognizing Character and Academics
College football isn’t just about what happens between the lines. A few players were honored for their off-field excellence:
- Jalen Milroe (Alabama) received the William V. Campbell Trophy, often referred to as the “Academic Heisman.”
- Nick Dawkins (Penn State) was awarded the Wuerffel Trophy for his outstanding community service.
Top Freshman
Colin Simmons (Texas) was named Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year, capping off an impressive debut season. Simmons made an immediate impact and looks like a future star in the making.
Still to Be Decided
A few awards - like the Broyles Award (top assistant coach) and the George Munger Award (top coach via Maxwell Club) - are still awaiting final announcements. But based on the finalists, expect more recognition for some of the game’s sharpest minds.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 college football season gave us breakout stars, dominant veterans, and coaching brilliance - all culminating in a historic first run of the 12-team playoff format. But when the dust settled, one name echoed louder than the rest: Travis Hunter.
Whether on offense, defense, or special teams, Hunter redefined what it means to be a complete player in today’s game. And with a trophy case that looks more like a museum exhibit, he’s now etched into college football lore.
But beyond the headlines and hardware, this year’s awards remind us of what makes college football so special - the passion, the grit, and the relentless pursuit of greatness, from walk-ons to Heisman winners.