3 Big 12 players in contention for Heisman Trophy ahead of Week 4 face-off ft. Travis HunterÂ
With the college football season moving into full swing, so does the Heisman Trophy race. The Big 12 might be a bit of an unlikely spot for a Heisman winner, but of course, the award isn't always just for the best player on the best team.
In fact, there are several viable Big 12 Heisman candidates. Here's a closer look at three Big 12 standouts who might get the nod ahead of Week 4.
3 Big 12 players in contention for Heisman Trophy
#3. Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona WR
With a loss to Kansas State, Arizona might struggle to stay in the league race. But if they do, it won't be McMillan's fault. Last season, the 6-foot-5 wideout caught 90 passes for 1,402 yards. This season, he's on a similar pace.
After three games, McMillan has 23 catches for 453 yards and four touchdowns. McMillan is currently sixth in the nation in catches and second in receiving yards. Granted, Arizona's struggles could hurt him, but McMillan is likely to put up an insane season for the Wildcats.
#2. Avery Johnson, Kansas State QB
The Kansas State signal caller is currently getting around 40/1 Heisman odds, but if he can win the league and have an impressive season, he's certainly got a shot. Last year, Johnson backed up Will Howard, but with Howard gone to Ohio State, the dual-threat star has taken over.
After three games, Johnson has passed for 490 yards with six touchdowns against a single interception. On the ground, he has added 187 more rushing yards.
Meanwhile, Kansas State is off to a 3-0 start and only has two teams currently ranked on its schedule over the rest of the season. If Johnson can lead the Wildcats to the College Football Playoff, he certainly has a Heisman opportunity.
#1. Travis Hunter, Colorado WR/DB
Travis Hunter, who is currently on the board at a 35/1 shot at the Heisman, can do everything. He's an All-American level receiver and cornerback. He followed Deion Sanders from Jackson State to Colorado and has starred with the Buffaloes so far.
So far, three games in, Hunter has 30 receptions for 342 yards and five touchdowns. In addition, he has 11 tackles on defense, with two pass breakups including an interception.
The only real issue for Hunter is his team. Only once has a Heisman winner come from a team with a losing record (Paul Hornung at Notre Dame in 1956). Colorado was just 4-8 a year ago and was just destroyed by Nebraska in Week 3.
Even if the Buffs don't have a losing season, it's unlikely that even a great player on a 6-6 or 7-5 team can win the Heisman.
Which players do you think could win the Heisman Trophy from the Big 12? Share your picks in the comments section below.