Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders of the Colorado Buffaloes are among the top 10 favorites for the Heisman Trophy in On3’s latest poll. Hunter leads the list, while Sanders ranks eighth heading into Week 13.

Colorado’s athletic director Rick George tweeted expressing disagreement with Shedeur Sanders’ stance.

“Hard to believe Shedeur isn’t even in the top five. Shaking my head,” he shared on X.

Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders Numbers Against Heisman Rivals

Shedeur Sanders’ stats slightly trail Jaxson Dart’s. Dart has more yards (3409 vs. 3222), fewer interceptions (4 vs. 7), and a higher QBR (86.2 vs. 76.5). Sanders leads in touchdowns, though Dart faces tougher SEC opponents.

Sanders appears to have stronger overall stats than Indiana’s Kurtis Rourke, who has 2,410 yards, 21 touchdowns, and four interceptions but holds a higher 88.1 QBR, ranking second nationally.

A similar case is Oregon’s Dillon Gabriel with 3,066 yards, 22 touchdowns, six interceptions, and an impressive 84.2 QBR.

Some wonder why players like Gabriel and Rourke, with fewer stats, often have higher QBRs than Shedeur Sanders.

ESPN’s formula looks at a quarterback’s overall impact, factoring in passing, rushing, turnovers, penalties, and the game situation. It also considers the strength of the opposing defense, offering a more complete picture of the player’s performance.

Right now, Miami’s Cameron Ward stands out as the top quarterback in the country, with 3,494 yards, 32 touchdowns, and just six interceptions, boasting the highest QBR at 89.4.