SOTU Awards: Offensive MVP — RB Travis Homer

Through the duration of what was an all-around tough 2018 season for the Miami Hurricanes, nobody was tougher than running back Travis Homer.

An easy choice for our offensive MVP, Homer was the constant workhorse and weapon for the Canes offense. In his first full year starting at running back, Homer rushed for a team-high and career-high 985 yards and also scored four touchdowns.

During his second-consecutive 900-yard plus season, this Palm Beach native produced highlights in 2018 that will long live in Miami lore. Arguably his most memorable came in the Canes comeback win victory against Florida State, as Homer and Miami’s offense were looking to run out the clock.

And then, this happened.

His bone-crushing run against the Noles perfectly showcases what kind of player Homer was for Miami, and not just in 2018, but throughout his UM career. Didn’t wear gloves, was a devastating blocker and a complete team player. Whether it was picking up a blitz versus LSU, or providing a block on a DeeJay Dallas punt return, Homer did what needed to be done in order for Miami to win.

Homer’s journey to being RB1 for Miami started midway through the 2017 season, when Mark Walton was lost for the year due to injury. #24 came in and did not disappoint, helping lead the Canes to a 10-3 record, and rushing for 966 yards plus eight touchdowns along the way.

As he became the full-time starter in 2018, Homer not only experienced the best collective campaign of his career, but his performances in individual games stand out as well. In a driving rainstorm against Duke, Homer ran for a then season-high 133 yards and a score.

Adding on to his resume, Homer notched a new season-high just weeks later with 168 yards against Pitt, including a 64 yard touchdown run to help Miami defeat the Panthers.

Although we all wanted Homer to stay for his senior season, he ultimately decided to declare for the NFL Draft following the 2018 year. The work he did this past season was one that wasn’t just noticed, but also well appreciated.

GO CANES!