Former Texas Tech star Patrick Mahomes has endorsed Red Raiders linebacker Jacob Rodriguez as a Heisman Trophy finalist following his standout performance against BYU. Rodriguez, a standout linebacker for the Red Raiders, made a crucial interception during the team’s 29-7 victory over the BYU Cougars, leading to a dramatic Heisman pose. Mahomes, currently the Kansas City Chiefs quarterback, took to social media to support Rodriguez, signaling his belief in the linebacker’s potential to make the He, while also highlighting the impact of his actions on the team’s performance.
Rodriguez’s interception was a pivotal moment in the game, as Texas Tech entered as the No. 8-ranked team while BYU was No. 7. The Red Raiders were boosted by Rodriguez’s play in the third quarter, which set the tone for the game. After the interception, Rodriguez posed for the iconic Heisman Trophy image, a move that has sparked discussions about his candidacy for the prestigious award. Rodriguez’s teammates reportedly convinced him to strike the pose, which has since gained widespread attention and support, including from Mahomes.
Patrick Mahomes, who played for Texas Tech before entering the NFL, expressed his support for Rodriguez on X, writing, ‘Get him to New York.’ This endorsement from a former standout player has added weight to Rodriguez’s case for the Heisman Trophy. Rodriguez’s performance in the game included 14 tackles, an interception, and a fumble recovery, showcasing his all-around abilities as a linebacker. His efforts have already sparked conversations among coaches and fans about his potential for the award.
Rodriguez, who is currently leading the Heisman Trophy conversation, has 74 total tackles, five pass break-ups, a sack, seven forced fumbles, and two interceptions this season. Texas Tech, under head coach Joey McGuire, is 9-1 this season and is likely to move up in the College Football Playoff rankings when the new spots are revealed. McGuire has expressed his belief in Rodriguez’s abilities, stating that the linebacker is playing at an elite level and deserves to be considered for the Heisman.
The Heisman Trophy has not been awarded to a sole defender since 1997, when Charles Woodson won it. Last year’s winner, Travis Hunter, played both cornerback and wide receiver for Colorado, highlighting the unique nature of the award. Rodriguez’s position as a linebacker is relatively rare among Heisman recipients, making his candidacy even more noteworthy. As the college football season progresses, the support from Mahomes and the performance on the field will be key factors in determining whether Rodriguez secures the prestigious honor.
With the Heisman Trophy conversation intensifying, Rodriguez’s performance against BYU has positioned him as a frontrunner for the award. The endorsement from Mahomes, combined with his standout game, has placed Rodriguez in the spotlight. As Texas Tech prepares for the next phase of the season, the Red Raiders’ linebacker is now a major contender for one of college football’s most prestigious honors.