Hendon Hooker’s rank amongst Vols’ Heisman robberies

Monday’s information about Hendon Hooker not being named among the many Heisman finalists was crushing for Tennessee soccer followers. It’s not shocking, because the Vols have an extended historical past of being unfairly disregarded of the race for the coveted trophy. Nonetheless, Hooker was so beloved that it could have even harm extra.

It’s clear the voters had a recency bias, which harm Hooker since he received injured within the subsequent to final recreation, one which the Vols misplaced 63-38, but it surely’s additionally clear that they punished a participant particularly for getting harm. What was so angering to Vol followers was that Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Stetson Bennett received in over him.

The place does this rank on the Heisman outrage checklist for the Vols, although? There are a lot, in spite of everything. Let’s. break them down right here. It is a have a look at all 5 Heisman Trophy disappointments for Tennessee soccer, a faculty but to convey that coveted award to Rocky High.

Hendon Hooker joins an inventory of Tennessee soccer Volunteers unfairly handled by the Heisman Trophy voters.

Tennessee quarterback Heath Shuler (21) waits on the snap towards South Carolina Oct. 31, 1992. The Sixteenth-ranked Vols have been upset 24-23 by the Gamcocks in Columbia, S.C.
Title Sec Traditional Ut Vs South Carolina

5

Heath Shuler

Quarterback 1993

Winner: Charlie Ward

Though it was a disappointment for the Vols, that is the one one which no person may make the case was unjust. Heath Shuler was the SEC Participant of the Yr in 1993 and completed second within the Heisman voting to Charlie Ward of the Florida State Seminoles. Ward had 740 of the 790 first place votes, simply clearing the sphere.

He deserved it. Whereas Shuler was elite, finishing 184 of 285 passes (64.6 %) for two,354 yards (8.3 yards per try), 25 touchdowns and eight interceptions to go together with 76 speeding yards and three speeding touchdowns, Ward’s numbers have been higher. He additionally gained the nationwide championship whereas UT went 9-2-1 (later 10-2).

For his half, the longer term NBA star went 264 of 380 (69.5 %) for 3,032 yards (8 yards per try), 27 touchdowns and 4 interceptions whereas speeding for 339 yards and 4 extra touchdowns. Throughout the board, Ward had higher stats, so it is a case the place Tennessee soccer followers had no gripe.