When asked to choose between his fellow Heisman Trophy finalists to win the award, Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel chose Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty.

“I’m going to be a little heated for this song, but I’m going to say Ashton Jeanty,” Gabriel said on the show Dan Patrick Show (8:00 a.m.). “I say this because I was once in the Group of Five and I know the challenges that come with it. Of course I played against Ashton this year, I think he’s a talented person. His story is unique and what he has accomplished is pretty impressive.”

Gabriel, Jeanty, Miami quarterback Cam Ward and Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter were selected as four finalists for Heisman honors on Monday night.

While Gabriel and Ward both deserve recognition for leading the Ducks and Hurricanes to records of 13-0 and 10-2, respectively, the race for the award could fall to Jeanty and Hunter based on their uniquely outstanding seasons.

The Broncos secured a spot in the College Football Playoff due to the heroics of Jeanty, who showcased his blistering speed and ability to battle through contact on a weekly basis. In 13 games, he accumulated 2,497 yards on the ground and scored 30 total touchdowns.

Jeanty was able to remain efficient despite his high volume of runs, averaging 7.3 yards per attempt.

Hunter shined as both a cornerback and wide receiver for the Buffaloes during his 2024 season. He recorded 32 tackles, 11 passes defended and four interceptions while catching 92 passes for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns.

On Thursday, Hunter won that Biletnikoff Prize as the best receiver in the country and the Chuck Bednarik Award, which is given to the best defensive player in the country. Receiving both awards is impressive and could provide insight into his Heisman Trophy candidacy.

Gabriel himself completed 73.2 percent of his throws for 3,558 yards and 28 touchdowns compared to six interceptions. The Ducks finished their first year as a member of the Big Ten with an undefeated record and entered the CFP as the No. 1 seed.

If Gabriel isn’t the winner, he thinks the Heisman should go to Jeanty.