Travis Hunter Makes NFL History With Rare Feat in Jaguars’ Loss to Texans
The Jacksonville Jaguars made a splash in last year’s draft, trading up to select Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, whose ability to play both sides of the ball made him a unique prospect.
During the Jaguars’ second London game on Sunday, he showcased his two-way abilities against the Houston Texans. He accomplished a rare feat that hadn’t been seen in an NFL game in 24 years.
In the fourth quarter, quarterback Trevor Lawrence found Hunter in the end zone for a seven-yard touchdown, his first of the NFL season, pulling Jacksonville within three points of the lead. On the Texans’ ensuing drive, Hunter was on defense, playing cornerback.
CJ Stroud attempted to throw to Xavier Hutchinson during part of the drive, with Hunter able to pick it off to record an interception in the same game as his touchdown. With that, he became the first player to get an interception and a receiving touchdown in the same game in 24 years.
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The last player to accomplish the feat was Super Bowl winner and Hall of Famer Brian Dawkins. He recorded a receiving touchdown and an interception in the same game while playing for the Eagles 24 years ago.
Before that, Roy Green accomplished the feat in 1981 for the NFL franchise then known as the St. Louis Cardinals, which has since become the Arizona Cardinals.
Hunter’s impact on the game came during a tight battle inside London’s Wembley Stadium. The two teams traded the lead in the first half, with Houston going up 17-14 before halftime.
The Texans then outscored the Jaguars 14-7 in the third quarter, setting up the exciting finish. Both of Hunter’s plays came in the fourth quarter as he was trying to help his team get another win.
Unfortunately, that effort fell short on Sunday, as Jacksonville lost 34-31 to their division rivals, who had previously struggled and have now won two straight games.
Hunter finished Sunday’s game with four receptions for 49 yards and his first touchdown this season. On defense, he had three total tackles and the aforementioned interception in the fourth quarter.
Questions surrounded the Jaguars’ drafting of Hunter with regard to how much usage he would get on both sides of the ball, and whether he’d have a more significant impact on offense or defense. However, Sunday’s performance offered compelling evidence of his ability to make an impact in both roles.
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