Derrick Henry Is the Best Running Back to Ever Win the Heisman Trophy
When college football fans talk about dominant running backs, one name consistently rises above the rest—Derrick Henry. The former Alabama football star not only brought a national title to Tuscaloosa, but also carved out a legacy that stands tall among Heisman Trophy winners. Under the legendary guidance of Nick Saban, Henry didn’t just win college football’s most prestigious award—he redefined what it meant to be a power back in the modern era.
A Season for the Ages
In 2015, Derrick Henry had a season that will live forever in the annals of Alabama football history. He rushed for 2,219 yards and scored 28 touchdowns—both records at the time for the SEC. What set Henry apart wasn’t just the numbers, but how and when he produced them. He carried the ball 395 times, including in high-stakes matchups against teams like LSU, Auburn, and Florida in the SEC Championship.
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Henry’s ability to dominate week after week, especially under the relentless pressure of playing for Nick Saban at Alabama, makes his Heisman campaign one of the most impressive ever.
Built Different: Size, Speed, and Stamina
Standing 6’3” and weighing around 240 pounds, Henry wasn’t your typical college running back. His combination of brute strength and surprising breakaway speed made him a nightmare for defenders. While many Heisman-winning running backs dazzled with agility, Henry imposed his will. His iconic 95-yard touchdown run against Auburn and punishing fourth-quarter performances are the stuff of legend in Tuscaloosa.
His stamina was unmatched—Henry got stronger as games went on. In fact, during Alabama’s title run, Saban leaned on Henry in the second halves of games to grind down opponents. That trust says everything about Henry’s dominance and durability.
Outshining Other Heisman Running Backs
When comparing Henry to other Heisman-winning backs like Barry Sanders, Ricky Williams, and Mark Ingram, several factors elevate Henry:
• Strength of schedule: Henry faced and beat top-10 teams regularly in the SEC.
• Team role: While others shared carries, Henry was the Alabama offense in 2015.
• Consistency: He had 10 games with 100+ rushing yards, including four games over 200 yards.
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Combine that with carrying the expectations of Alabama football, a program built on championships and excellence, and Henry’s performance becomes even more remarkable.
Legacy in Tuscaloosa and Beyond
Even years after leaving Tuscaloosa, Derrick Henry’s name echoes through Bryant-Denny Stadium. He’s a symbol of the Nick Saban era’s dominance—a player who personified the physical, relentless style that defines Alabama football. His Heisman Trophy wasn’t just a personal accolade; it was a moment of pride for an entire fanbase and a validation of Saban’s commitment to excellence.
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Henry went on to NFL stardom, proving that his college dominance wasn’t a fluke. But in the heart of Alabama fans, it’s his 2015 season—played under the lights of Tuscaloosa, in the shadow of greatness—that cements him as the best running back to ever hoist the Heisman.
