The Heisman Trophy: A Dream Deferred for Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love
The 2025 college football season was supposed to be different for Notre Dame. After years of near misses and heartbreak, the Fighting Irish finally had a player who seemed destined for greatness: Jeremiyah Love. But as the Heisman Trophy ceremony unfolded on a chilly December night in New York, the dream of bringing the prestigious award back to South Bend was once again put on hold.
Love, a junior running back with a knack for finding the end zone, had shattered school records and captivated fans with his electrifying plays. His 21 touchdowns in a single season were not just a personal achievement; they were a testament to his relentless work ethic and determination. Yet, despite being a finalist and the first Notre Dame player to reach this stage since Manti Te’o in 2012, Love finished third in the Heisman voting, behind Indiana’s quarterback Fernando Mendoza and Vanderbilt’s Diego Pavia.
But here's where it gets controversial... While Love’s stats were undeniably impressive—1,652 yards from scrimmage, 1,372 rushing yards, and a 6.89-yard per-carry average—some argue that the Heisman Trophy has become increasingly biased toward quarterbacks. Since Alabama’s Derrick Henry won in 2015, not a single running back has claimed the trophy. Is this a coincidence, or is there a deeper trend at play?
And this is the part most people miss... Love’s impact extended far beyond the field. As Notre Dame coach Marcus Freeman pointed out, Love’s growth as a person has been just as remarkable as his athletic achievements. His authenticity and humility have made him a role model for young athletes, proving that success is about more than just stats and trophies.
As Love himself reflected before the ceremony, “I’m a competitor, and I want to win in everything I do. But if I don’t win the Heisman, it’s OK. I’ll still be recognized for the great things I’ve accomplished this season.” And recognized he was—not just for his record-breaking year, but for the inspiration he has become.
So, what do you think? Is the Heisman Trophy losing its appeal for running backs? Or is it simply a reflection of the evolving nature of college football? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going!
