2014 Heisman Winner - A Look Back At Marcus Mariota's Triumph
The year 2014 brought with it a rather exciting moment for college football fans, as the annual selection for the Heisman Memorial Trophy was drawing near. People were, you know, really looking forward to seeing who would take home one of the sport's most respected honors. There was a lot of talk, a lot of guessing, and a whole lot of watching to see which young athlete would be recognized for being the very best that season. It was a time when the whole college football community, it's almost, seemed to hold its breath in anticipation.
As the regular season came to a close, folks were, apparently, keen to see how the voting would play out. Many were tracking the progress of various standout players, looking at their regular season numbers, and reliving the most memorable moments from their games. It was a period filled with discussions about who truly deserved the honor, with fans and sports followers weighing in on every impressive play and every significant statistic. This kind of widespread interest, you know, truly makes the award what it is, connecting people to the stories of these young athletes.
And then, as a matter of fact, the day arrived when the winner would be named. On December 13, 2014, the world learned that Oregon's very own quarterback, Marcus Mariota, had been chosen as the 80th recipient of this truly significant award. It was, in a way, a moment that many had seen coming, given his incredible performance throughout the season, but it was still a big deal to hear it made official. His selection, that is, marked a special time for his team and for him personally, putting a cap on a season that was nothing short of remarkable.
Table of Contents
- Marcus Mariota- The 2014 Heisman Winner's Story
- What Made the 2014 Heisman Winner So Special?
- How Did the 2014 Heisman Winner Get Chosen?
- Who Else Was a Notable 2014 Heisman Winner Contender?
- A Look Back- The Legacy of the 2014 Heisman Winner and Others
- How Do Fans Keep Up with the 2014 Heisman Winner and Beyond?
- What Happened After the 2014 Heisman Winner's College Career?
- What Does the 2014 Heisman Winner Mean for Oregon Football?
Marcus Mariota- The 2014 Heisman Winner's Story
Marcus Ardel Taulauniu Mariota, the individual who would become the 2014 Heisman winner, came into this world on October 30, 1993. His birthplace was Honolulu, Hawaii, a place known for its beautiful scenery and warm spirit. He spent his younger years there, attending St. [school name not provided in text] for his high school education. His beginnings in the sport were, you know, fairly humble, as he was not widely known during the later parts of his time playing high school football. This makes his later success all the more striking, actually, showing how much a person can grow and develop their skills over time.
His journey to becoming a top college football player, and ultimately the 2014 Heisman winner, truly picked up steam when he joined the Oregon Ducks. He played as a quarterback, a position that carries a lot of responsibility on the field. During his time at Oregon, he showed a remarkable ability to lead his team and make big plays. It was, in some respects, his junior year when he really put everything together, delivering a season that caught the attention of practically everyone who followed college football. His performances were, you know, consistently strong, setting him apart from many others.
He was, basically, a player who made things happen. His presence on the field gave his team a real spark, and he had a way of inspiring those around him to perform at their best. People who watched him play could see the talent and the dedication he brought to every game. It was, arguably, a season for the ages, one that would be remembered for a very long time, not just by Oregon fans but by anyone who appreciates great football. He was, really, a joy to watch, demonstrating a level of skill that few possess.
Personal Details - The 2014 Heisman Winner
| Full Name | Marcus Ardel Taulauniu Mariota |
| Date of Birth | October 30, 1993 |
| Birthplace | Honolulu, Hawaii |
| College Team | Oregon Ducks |
| Position | Quarterback |
| Heisman Year | 2014 (Junior) |
| Current NFL Team | Washington Commanders |
What Made the 2014 Heisman Winner So Special?
When you look at what Marcus Mariota did during the 2014 season, it's pretty clear why he stood out as the Heisman winner. He truly led the entire country in how efficient he was at passing the ball, which means he made the most of his throws, completing them well and making smart decisions. This kind of precision is, you know, something every coach hopes for in a quarterback. It showed a deep understanding of the game and a calm presence under pressure, which is, basically, vital for success at that level of play.
Beyond his passing accuracy, he also achieved something quite remarkable with his scoring plays. He managed to tie a record for the most touchdowns in a season, reaching a total of 53. That number includes both the passes he threw for scores and the times he ran the ball into the end zone himself. To accumulate that many touchdowns is, you know, a very, very big deal, demonstrating his ability to find ways to put points on the board, whether with his arm or his legs. It speaks to his versatility and his constant threat to opposing defenses, making him a player who was, quite frankly, difficult to stop.
So, too, it's almost as if everyone expected him to win the Heisman that year. The announcement of Marcus Mariota as the 2014 Heisman winner did not come as a shock to most people who followed college football. His performances were consistently at a very high level, week after week, making a strong case for his recognition. It was, you know, a season where he just seemed to be a step above the competition, delivering impressive play after impressive play. This feeling of inevitability, that is, only added to the excitement when his name was finally called.
How Did the 2014 Heisman Winner Get Chosen?
The process of selecting the Heisman winner is, in some respects, quite interesting. It involves a group of people who truly understand the game and its history. All previous Heisman winners are given the chance to cast their vote, which is a pretty unique aspect of this award. Imagine, you know, having a say in who joins such an exclusive club, a group of players who have reached the pinnacle of college football individual achievement. Their collective wisdom and experience, that is, play a big part in determining the next recipient.
In addition to the past winners, there's also a way for the wider public to have their voice heard. One final vote is counted through public balloting, allowing fans and supporters to contribute to the decision. This blend of seasoned experts and passionate fans makes the voting process, you know, a fairly comprehensive one. It ensures that the choice for the 2014 Heisman winner, or any year's winner, reflects both deep football insight and the general sentiment of the sport's followers. It's a system that, basically, tries to capture the essence of what makes a player truly outstanding.
The announcement itself is, of course, a big event. For the 2014 Heisman winner, Marcus Mariota, the news came on December 13. This date is, you know, typically when the college football world gathers to celebrate the season's most impressive player. Before the big reveal, people were, as a matter of fact, able to look at his regular season statistics, watch his highlights from the year, and see the voting results as they came in. The anticipation leading up to this moment is, really, a core part of the Heisman experience, building excitement for who will claim the prestigious award.
Who Else Was a Notable 2014 Heisman Winner Contender?
While Marcus Mariota was the one to ultimately claim the title of 2014 Heisman winner, he certainly wasn't the only incredible player on the field that season. The award ceremony also recognized two other outstanding athletes who were named as finalists. These were Melvin Gordon, a running back from Wisconsin, and Amari Cooper, a wide receiver from Alabama. Both of these individuals had, you know, truly remarkable seasons, making strong cases for the award themselves. Their inclusion as finalists shows just how much talent was present in college football that year, and how tough the competition was.
Melvin Gordon, as a running back, displayed an amazing ability to gain yards on the ground, often breaking away for long runs that changed the course of games. Amari Cooper, playing wide receiver, was a constant threat to opposing defenses, catching passes with skill and making plays that ignited his team's offense. Their presence at the Heisman ceremony, basically, highlighted the diverse range of skills that can lead to being considered among the very best in the sport. It's a reminder that, you know, greatness comes in many forms on the football field, not just from the quarterback position.
The text also mentions a few other names in the context of college football players, though not specifically as 2014 Heisman winner finalists. Derrick Henry, a running back from Alabama, was a junior at the time, and Lamar Jackson, a quarterback from Louisville, was a sophomore. These individuals, you know, also represent the kind of talent that makes college football so exciting to watch. While their specific connection to the 2014 Heisman race isn't detailed, their mention points to the ongoing flow of exceptional players who leave their mark on the sport, season after season. It's, you know, a continuous story of athletic excellence.
A Look Back- The Legacy of the 2014 Heisman Winner and Others
The Heisman Memorial Trophy has a very long and storied past, with a winner being selected every single year since 1935. This means that Marcus Mariota, the 2014 Heisman winner, joins a truly long line of exceptional athletes who have been recognized for their outstanding college football performances. The award has, you know, become a symbol of individual excellence in the sport, carrying a great deal of weight and prestige. Looking back at the list of those who have received it is, basically, like walking through a hall of fame for college football's brightest stars.
Among the early recipients, Larry Kelley stands out. He was the second person ever to win the award, and he holds the distinction of being the first individual to win it when it was officially known as the Heisman Trophy. This piece of history, you know, connects the very beginnings of the award to its present-day status, showing how it has grown and evolved over the decades. It's a reminder that every winner, including the 2014 Heisman winner, is part of a continuing story, building upon the legacy established by those who came before them.
Another truly significant figure in the award's history is Ernie Davis from Syracuse. He was the first African American player to be honored with the Heisman. His win was, you know, a very important moment, breaking barriers and opening doors for future generations of athletes. Sadly, Ernie Davis never got the chance to play a single snap in the NFL. He was diagnosed with leukemia shortly after receiving the award and, tragically, passed away in 1963. His story is, basically, a poignant reminder of the fragility of life, and the impact he had even without a professional career, making his Heisman win all the more meaningful.
The history of the Heisman also includes other notable figures, like Bo Jackson. He is a Heisman winner who is also known for his incredible abilities in both football and baseball, making him a truly unique athlete. He was recently inducted into the Cotton Bowl Hall of Fame, which speaks to his lasting impact on the sport. Bo Jackson, you know, understands a lot about football, baseball, Heisman Trophies, and even major brands like Nike. His story is, in a way, one of exceptional versatility and widespread recognition, showing how far the influence of a Heisman winner can reach.
And, as a matter of fact, if you visit Gerald J. Ford Stadium, you can see a statue of Doak Walker. This statue was there on September 27, 2014, serving as a permanent tribute to another Heisman winner. These kinds of memorials, you know, help to keep the stories of these players alive, allowing new generations of fans to learn about their achievements and the impact they had on the sport. It's a way of honoring the past, while still looking forward to the future of college football and its many talented players, including the 2014 Heisman winner.
How Do Fans Keep Up with the 2014 Heisman Winner and Beyond?
For those who love sports, keeping up with players like the 2014 Heisman winner, Marcus Mariota, and others is a big part of the fun. The text mentions that if you have a sports website, there are tools and resources available that can help you use sports data. This points to how much information is out there for fans to explore, from player statistics to game highlights. It's, you know, a way for people to stay connected to the sport they care about, delving into the details of player performance and team achievements. This access to data makes the experience of following football, basically, much richer.
People often want to see how their favorite players are doing, even years after their college days. You can, as a matter of fact, still find football action involving former Heisman winners. This ongoing interest is what keeps the stories of players like Marcus Mariota alive. Fans enjoy revisiting their season highlights, looking at their voting results, and seeing who they competed against for the prestigious award. It's, you know, a continuous narrative, where the past achievements of players are still discussed and celebrated, showing the lasting appeal of the sport.
Sometimes, people even ponder specific moments related to these athletes. For instance, one might wonder which team managed to score over 50 points on a former Heisman winner, like Winston, during the College Football Playoff. This kind of question, you know, shows how deeply fans engage with the sport's history and its key figures. It's a way of connecting different eras and different players, keeping the conversation around college football, and its stars like the 2014 Heisman winner, vibrant and full of interesting points to consider. It's, basically, part of the fun of being a fan.
What Happened After the 2014 Heisman Winner's College Career?
After his incredible college season and being named the 2014 Heisman winner, Marcus Mariota continued his football journey into the professional ranks. He is, as a matter of fact, an American professional football quarterback who currently plays for the Washington Commanders in the National Football League, or NFL. This move to the professional level is, you know, a common path for Heisman winners, as their college success often translates into opportunities at the highest level of the sport. His ongoing career shows his dedication to the game, and his continued presence on the field.
Beyond his professional playing days, Marcus Mariota has also received further recognition for his time at the University of Oregon. He was, in fact, among five former Ducks players who were recently inducted into the Oregon Athletics Hall of Fame. This honor, you know, acknowledges his significant contributions to the university's sports program, cementing his place in their history. It's a way of celebrating his legacy at the college level, long after he moved on to the NFL, showing how much he meant to the Oregon football community, and how his achievements as the 2014 Heisman winner are still very much remembered and valued.
What Does the 2014 Heisman Winner Mean for Oregon Football?
Marcus Mariota's win as the 2014 Heisman winner was a truly historic moment for the Oregon Ducks football program. He became the very first player from Oregon to ever win the award, which is a massive achievement for any school. This kind of recognition, you know, puts a spotlight on the entire program, drawing attention to the quality of their coaching, their players, and their overall success. It's a point of great pride for the university and its fans, marking a significant milestone in their athletic history, and, basically, setting a new standard for future players.
His victory was also significant for reasons beyond just his school. Marcus Mariota is the first player of Polynesian descent and the first player from Hawaii to win the Heisman. These distinctions, you know, make his achievement even more special, as he represents a broader community. It shows that talent can come from anywhere, and it can inspire young athletes from similar backgrounds to pursue their dreams in football. His story is, in a way, a testament to breaking new ground and achieving greatness, making him a figure who means a lot to many different groups of people.
An Instagram video, for instance, highlights these very points, stating that "Mariota became the first Duck and Polynesian player to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy award in 2014." This kind of public acknowledgment, you know, helps to spread the word about his unique accomplishments and the impact he had. It reinforces the idea that his win was not just about individual skill, but also about representing his team and his heritage. His legacy as the 2014 Heisman winner is, basically, one of pioneering success, bringing honor to both his university and his community.
This article has explored the journey of Marcus Mariota, the 2014 Heisman winner, covering his background, his exceptional performance leading to the award, and the process by which he was chosen. It has also touched upon the other talented finalists for that year, and provided a look into the rich history of the Heisman Trophy through the stories of past winners. Additionally, the piece discussed how fans engage with sports data and follow the careers of players like Mariota, and concluded with details about his post-college path and the lasting significance of his win for Oregon football.
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