Heisman hopeful Ashton Jeanty points to his faith after playoff-bound Boise State wins Mountain West title
Boise State star running back and Heisman Trophy hopeful Ashton Jeanty helped the Broncos punch their ticket to the College Football Playoffs with another impressive performance in Friday night’s Mountain West championship game.
But his first thought wasn’t how another 200-yard game improved his Heisman chances. It was his faith.
Boise State Broncos running back Ashton Jeanty (2) is interviewed by Fox Sports reporter Allison Williams after the game against the UNLV Rebels at Albertsons Stadium on Dec. 6. 2024. (Photos by Brian Losness-Imagn)
“First of all, I have to thank God,” Jeanty told FOX Sports in an on-field interview after the 21-7 victory. over UNLV.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH ONE OF THE GAMES ON FOXNEWS.COM
“The way he walked in this group and he blesses us – the grace of God is upon us.”
Jeanty, who confirmed Friday’s title game will be Boise State’s last before entering next year’s NFL Draft, spoke freely about his faith and the role it has played in his life. In the conversation earlier this season, Jeanty talked about the “big change” she went through and how she thanked her faith for that change.
“I like to say that I’m a Christian cleverly disguised as an All-American running back,” he said at the time. “I have learned that God has blessed me with amazing talents. I have just been able to do many great things with it, but at the same time, not lose myself in it and understand that my identity is in Christ.”
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty (2) pushes into the arms of UNLV defensive end Tatuo Martinson (98) on a run during the first half of the Mountain West Championship NCAA college football game Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, in Boise, Idaho . (AP Photo/Steve Conner)
BOISE STATE WINS MOUNTAIN WEST GAME AS CFP’S FIRST DEVELOPED BALLET TAKES SHAPE.
Jeanty rushed for 209 yards and a 75-yard touchdown to push his total to 2,497, just 132 yards short of the all-time FBS record. The title game was also his sixth game of the season in which he rushed for more than 200 yards.
But for Jeanty, Friday’s victory was always a collective effort.
“This means everything. It’s everything we’ve worked for, and to come out here and accomplish it, you have to give credit to the team — the offense, the defense, the special teams came together tonight.
“It’s amazing, a dream come true,” he continued. “I love this team. I love how we came together, the connection and love we have is stronger than anything.”
Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty (2) tackles UNLV tight end Jett Elad (9) on a run during the first half of the Mountain West Championship NCAA college football game on Friday, Dec. 6, 2024, Boise, Idaho. (AP Photo/Steve Conner)
CLICK HERE FOR THE FOX NEWS PROGRAM
Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter is a Heisman Trophy contender, but the Buffaloes were left out of the Big 12 championship game and will not make a playoff appearance. The votes will be cast long before CFP begins, but Boise State coach Spencer Danielson believes Jeanty has already received them.
“As for the Heisman, I’m asking all the voters to watch the film, watch the stats,” Danielson said. “That will show you that he is the best football player in the country. … .”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on Xand register at Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.
