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By Matthew Couden
Contributing Writer
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Robert Griffin III rose to fame as a star quarterback for the Baylor Bears over 10 years ago and won the Heisman Trophy in 2011 for an impressive college season. On Monday, RG3 and others learned the names of the finalists contending for the 2025 Heisman.
They include three outstanding quarterbacks with Indiana's Fernando Mendoza, Ohio State's Julian Sayin, and Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia. In addition, stellar Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is one of the finalists who will attend the major ceremony in New York City.
Since retiring from his NFL career, RG3 now shares his thoughts about all things football on his show, "Outta Pocket," alongside his wife, Greta Griffin. Over the past several days, he reacted to some of the biggest stories on college football on social media, with his take on a major Heisman finalist snub arriving on Monday evening.
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"Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez being left off the Heisman Finalist list is a CRIME AGAINST HUMANITY," the former trophy winner fired off in a message on X.
Rodriguez certainly had a standout season for the Red Raiders, finishing the regular season with 60 solo tackles, one sack, seven forced fumbles, and four interceptions. After a solid victory over BYU to claim their conference championship, Rodriguez's Texas Tech recently earned a first-round bye as the No. 4 seed in the College Football Playoff bracket.
It's rare to see defensive stars get that sort of credit when it comes to an award like the Heisman. While last year's winner, Colorado's Travis Hunter, played defense as a cornerback, he also played offense as a wide receiver.
Before Hunter, one has to look back over 25 years, as Michigan’s Charles Woodson claimed the prestigious award in 1997. Otherwise, the list of former winners includes mostly quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers.
The Heisman Trophy Ceremony occurs on Saturday, Dec. 13, in New York City. While Rodriguez won't be among the contenders for the award, he's still competing for the national championship and will be among the 2026 NFL Draft picks next year.
Read more: Ole Miss HC Pete Golding Gets Honest About CFP After Lane Kiffin Exit
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