In a turn of events that's resonating across the Rockies, University of Colorado Boulder Buffaloes' own Travis Hunter has been named as a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, a testament to his dual-threat dominance on the gridiron. According to KDVR, Hunter's explosive performance this season has placed him among the top contenders for an award that has celebrated collegiate football excellence since 1935.

Travis Hunter's prowess is not confined to just one aspect of the game, this two-way standout has been a revelation both as a wide receiver and as a cornerback. As Denver 7 reports, Hunter is a rare breed who not only led the Big 12 Conference in receptions and receiving touchdowns but also made his mark on defense. His storied season includes being the only player in history to snag both Offensive and Defensive Player of the Week honors in the same season, a detail that bolsters his Heisman candidacy.

The finalist announcement didn't come without a touch of controversy, as the conversation included CU quarterback Shedeur Sanders, a formidable force in his own right. The Denver Post reported on the debate surrounding Sanders' exclusion despite his nation-leading completion percentage and his claiming of the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year title. Sanders, subjected to the lobbying efforts of his father, Coach Prime, ultimately did not cut the Heisman finalists.

Hunter, who shares the finalist spotlight with talents such as Boise State's Ashton Jeanty, Oregon's Dillon Gabriel, and Miami's Cam Ward, is tipped as the favorite to win the prestigious award. He's in a neck-to-neck race with Jeanty, according to various straw polls cited by the same sources. The dynamics of this duo's competition will come to a head when the Heisman winner is announced next Saturday, December 14, with all eyes fixed on whether Hunter's versatile contribution to the Buffaloes will trump Jeanty's rushing prowess.