LOOK: Tennessee fires up the Heisman Trophy campaign for Hendon Hooker
Nobody has quite wrapped up the Heisman Trophy heading into conference championship weekend, even if Caleb Williams seems like the front-runner. Others will still be making their case to win college football’s most prestigious individual award, including Tennessee and quarterback Hendon Hooker.
A campaign out of Knoxville was launched on Wednesday for Hooker, with the official Tennessee Football Twitter account posting a graphic. #HeismanHendon was attached as the caption, with some of the quarterback’s best qualities being posted as well. Excellence, perseverance, and toughness were some of the most eye-popping, talking about more than just Hooker’s ability on the field.
Of course, if Hooker is going to win the Heisman, his impressive 2022 season will be the reason why. But advertising for him as a person does not hurt either as Tennessee looks to appeal to voters across the country.
You can check out the full graphic below.
Hooker brought the Tennessee program to new heights this season, running a high-flying offense alongside head coach Josh Heupel. Gaudy numbers were put up on a consistent basis, even against a tough SEC schedule.
Playing in 11 games this season, Hooker threw for 3,135 yards, 27 touchdowns, and two interceptions. He will finish the season with the highest completion percentage, 69.6%, in the SEC in addition to the most yards per attempt (YPA) in the country at 9.6.
Impressive numbers all around for someone who was a backup to begin the 2021 season.
Unfortunately, the season ended on a low note for Hooker. During a loss against South Carolina, he suffered a non-contact injury which wound up being a torn ACL. Hooker is obviously done for the season and will now begin to prepare for the 2023 NFL Draft.
But a high note can be achieved by at least receiving an invitation to the Heisman Trophy ceremony in New York City. Tennessee will be telling anyone who will listen that their quarterback deserves to hoist the award too.