Baker Mayfield's journey in college football is a remarkable story of perseverance and talent. Starting as a walk-on player, Mayfield's determination and skill led him to become the first walk-on to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy. This article delves into his college career, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that defined his path to success.
Early College Days at Texas Tech
Baker Mayfield began his college football career at Texas Tech University. Despite not being offered a scholarship, he walked on to the team and quickly made an impact. In 2013, Mayfield was named the starting quarterback after an injury to the projected starter. He became the first walk-on true freshman quarterback to start a season opener at the FBS level. Mayfield's debut was impressive, as he passed for 413 yards and four touchdowns against SMU, earning him the Big 12 Conference Offensive Player of the Week.However, his time at Texas Tech was not without challenges. After a knee injury and losing his starting
position, Mayfield decided to transfer. His departure was marked by a "miscommunication" with the coaching staff, leading him to seek new opportunities elsewhere.
Transfer to Oklahoma and Rising Success
In 2014, Mayfield transferred to the University of Oklahoma, a move that would define his college career. Initially, he faced challenges due to Big 12 Conference transfer rules, which required him to sit out a season and lose a year of eligibility. Despite these setbacks, Mayfield's determination never wavered. In 2015, he won the starting quarterback position for the Sooners and quickly proved his worth.Mayfield's performance on the field was nothing short of spectacular. He led Oklahoma to an 11-2 record, throwing for 3,700 yards and 36 touchdowns. His efforts earned him fourth place in the Heisman Trophy voting that year, setting the stage for his future success.
Achieving the Heisman Dream
The pinnacle of Mayfield's college career came in 2017 when he won the Heisman Trophy. That season, he threw for 4,627 yards and 43 touchdowns, leading Oklahoma to a Big 12 Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff. Mayfield's leadership and skill on the field were undeniable, and his Heisman win was a testament to his hard work and resilience.Mayfield's journey from a walk-on to a Heisman winner is a story of overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness. His college career laid the foundation for his future in the NFL, where he continues to make his mark as a talented quarterback.
