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Sounds like Trevor Lawrence would vote Travis Etienne for the Heisman

By Patrick Schmidt

Clemson Tigers quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) throws to running back Travis Etienne (9) against Miami Hurricanes defensive line Jaelan Phillips (15) during the first quarte at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports
Clemson Tigers quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) throws to running back Travis Etienne (9) against Miami Hurricanes defensive line Jaelan Phillips (15) during the first quarte at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Trevor Lawrence doesn’t have a Heisman vote, but if he did, it sounds like he would be voting for his teammate, running back Travis Etienne.

Clemson football star quarterback Trevor Lawrence is the favorite to win the Heisman Trophy, but the way he puts it, you’d think he’s an underdog when he talks about running back Travis Etienne.

The new FBS record-holder with a touchdown in 39 games, Etienne ran for more than 200 yards in last week’s game vs. then-No. 7 Miami and the Clemson All-American backfield may now be the two leading candidates for the Heisman Trophy. At least, among players who have played this season as Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields figures to play his way into contention, albeit with an eight-game schedule and late start.

“I haven’t seen a better player in college football, personally, Lawrence said when asked about Etienne. “So that’s all I’ll say. Whether he wins it or not — that guy is unbelievable.”

Lawrence stopped short of saying he doesn’t want to win the Heisman, only to make the case that Etienne is the best player he’s seen in college football. While he’s certainly biased, it doesn’t mean he’s wrong either.

Trevor Lawrence makes the Heisman case for Travis Etienne

Through four games, Etienne ranks 23rd in the nation with 392 rushing yards on 7 yards per carry and has scored four times as a running back this season. He’s averaging 98 yards per game. But that doesn’t tell the whole story with Etienne who has made big improvements as a receiver since his freshman season. Etienne has 17 receptions for 245 yards and another touchdown.

HIs 159.3 yards from scrimmage per game average ranks third nationally but is only 5.7 yards shy of the leader, Virginia Tech’s Kahlil Herbert for the lead.

Whether Etienne ultimately wins the Heisman or not, he’s doing everything he can do stay in the conversation and as long as Clemson keeps winning, he’ll stay in the race. Regardless of individual accolades, Etienne is mostly focused on winning a second national championship.

If he wins the Heisman on top of that, it’s even better.

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