Patrick Mahomes is calling for Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez to be considered for the prestigious Heisman Trophy following an impressive display on the field. Rodriguez, who has been making a significant impact this season, celebrated his strong performance with a Heisman pose during the game on Saturday.
This particular game featured Texas Tech dominating BYU, ranked eighth at the time, with a score of 29-7. The former Red Raiders quarterback, Mahomes, was present to witness the action and took to social media afterwards to voice his support. “Get him to New York! @HeismanTrophy,” he tweeted, amplifying the call for Rodriguez”s candidacy.
Rodriguez, a 6-foot-1, 235-pound linebacker known for his distinctive mustache, has established himself as a defensive powerhouse. He recorded 14 tackles, along with an interception and a fumble recovery during the game. The interception, which marked his third of the season, came in the third quarter after he tipped the ball to himself. Following the play, Rodriguez struck his signature pose, which sent the crowd at Jones AT&T Stadium into a frenzy. “My guys, they wanted me to hit it,” Rodriguez explained. “Just a rush of adrenaline.”
This season has been remarkable for Rodriguez, as he currently leads the FBS with seven forced fumbles. Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire fully supports Mahomes” endorsement, stating, “The Heisman is given to the best football player and not the best quarterback. Jacob is as elite as anybody in the country.”
While Rodriguez acknowledges the frequent discussions about the Heisman with Coach McGuire, he remains focused on keeping Texas Tech”s playoff aspirations alive. The Red Raiders are currently 9-1 overall and 6-1 in the Big 12, having held BYU to just 255 total yards, significantly below their average.
Regardless of whether Rodriguez receives a Heisman nomination, his stellar performances this season have certainly put him on the radar of voters. As the college football season progresses, his contributions on defense will continue to be a topic of conversation among fans and analysts alike.
In other college football news, topics of interest include the buyout details for Deion Sanders and Brian Kelly, as well as updates on Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter and his struggles during his rookie season.
