The college football season is in full swing, and with each game there are new standout moments that make fans cheer. PorkRinds.com’s “Crunch Time Hero of the Year” Award captures these exciting plays by honoring athletes who make a difference on the field. Here’s a look back at the latest heroes who’ve delivered game-changing performances each week:
Week 1 kicked off with a bang as University of South Carolina Defensive end Dylan Stewart, a true freshman, had a college debut that won’t soon be forgotten. With 4 tackles, 1.5 sacks, a QB hurry, and 2 forced fumbles, Stewart proved unstoppable and earned the highest grade of any college football player that week. His debut set the tone for what has been a season full of incredible Crunch Time moments.
Week 2 brought us Arizona State University Sophomore C.J. Fite, whose acrobatic pylon stretch sealed a victory for the Sun Devils against Mississippi State. This sophomore defensive lineman showcased athleticism and agility as he stretched over the pylon for a touchdown that turned out to be the deciding score.
Week 3 went to Louisiana State University Senior Bradyn Swinson, whose fourth-quarter strip sack halted South Carolina’s drive and helped LSU hold onto a critical lead. Named SEC Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts, Swinson’s play was a highlight of LSU’s defensive strength and showcased why he deserved the Crunch Time Hero title.
Week 4 featured a classic rivalry match, the “Battle for the Iron Skillet” between Southern Methodist University (SMU) and Texas Christian University (TCU). SMU Senior Cornerback Brandon Crossley made a game-defining play by recovering a fumble and running 51 yards for a touchdown, securing the Mustangs’ lead and keeping the trophy in their hands for another year.
Week 5 highlighted University of Alabama Freshman Defensive End Zabien Brown, whose end zone interception in the final seconds of the game secured a dramatic win over the top-ranked Georgia Bulldogs. Brown’s interception in this nail-biting showdown made him a clear choice for that week’s hero.
In Week 6, Vanderbilt University’s Sophomore Linebacker Randon Fontenette stunned Alabama fans with a defensive touchdown, completing a pivotal interception and run that secured one of the season’s biggest upsets. Fontenette’s play had fans roaring and was a perfect example of the kind of crunch-time performance we celebrate.
Week 7 turned the spotlight on Notre Dame Senior Offensive Lineman Pat Coogan, who demonstrated his versatility by converting a fumble into crucial yards for a first down. His quick thinking and hustle against Stanford turned a tough play into a big win, proving that offensive linemen can deliver Crunch Time moments too!
Week 8 celebrated University of Tennessee Senior Defensive Back Will Brooks, whose clutch tackle on Alabama’s quarterback led to a season-defining interception. His play preserved Tennessee’s lead and made him an unforgettable Crunch Time hero in their historic win.
Week 9 saw Southern Methodist University (SMU) Senior Defensive End Jahfari Harvey step up in a tight game against Duke University. In overtime, Harvey blocked a field goal attempt, securing SMU’s victory and adding an exclamation point to an already thrilling game.
Finally, in Week 10, University of Georgia Sophomore Linebacker CJ Allen brought the Bulldogs across the finish line against Florida with a fourth-quarter interception, helping his team clinch an important win and proving once again why he’s one of the season’s best defenders.
With only a few weeks left, each of these Crunch Time Heroes is in the running for the prestigious title of Crunch Time Hero of the Year. Head over to PorkRinds.com/CrunchTimeHero to vote for your favorite hero and enter for a chance to win a year’s supply of pork rinds. Celebrate these incredible athletes with us and see who’ll emerge as the ultimate hero of the season!