The big debate was between Murray and Tagovailoa, but most assumed throughout the season the most prestigious award in college football would come down to those three finalists. From there, the other contenders at various points of the year have been fluid, including Kentucky’s Benny Snell and Josh Allen finding their way into the conversation. Snell started the year with the momentum, and then Allen finished as the far-and-away best Wildcat contender.
We knew he wasn’t going to win, as Charles Woodson is the only defensive player to ever win the award. But everyone expected the most dominant pass-rusher in college football to receive at least a few votes.