Cam Ward reveals how he stays grounded amid Heisman-contender hype

Fifth-year transfer quarterback Cam Ward enters 2024 under a microscope after joining the Miami Hurricanes football program this past offseason.

Ward had the choice to keep his name in the 2024 NFL Draft or return to the collegiate level, and opted to play for Mario Cristobal in Coral Gables for his final season of eligibility. Heisman Trophy-level of expectations follow him to Miami which he’s been able to handle nicely, he said.

“It’s really just how I was raised,” Ward said at ACC Media Days. “I don’t get too high or low. Even on the football field. At the end of the day the only thing that is going to take care of myself and my family is making plays on the football field.

“Everybody’s opinion of myself doesn’t really matter to me and my family. At this point, this time in my life, I’m more focused on trying to win football games with the team around me. The coaching staff is going to put us in the best position.I don’t really get into all that. If I happen to be at the podium up there in December, I’ll be thanking God and thanking the guys.”

Regarding the Heisman Trophy, On3’s Jesse Simonton ranked him at No. 6 in his preseason top 10 candidates for the prestigeous award. Based on his track record, this level of praise may be warranted.

2023 was his second season with the Cougars after transferring in from Incarnate Word, where he was a star at the FCS level. He threw for nearly 7,000 yards and scored 61 touchdowns during first his two seasons before transferring to the Wazzu ahead of the 2022 college football season.

During this past season at Washington State, Ward completed 66.6 percent of his passes, throwing for 3,735 yards, with 25 touchdowns and seven interceptions.

Entering his fifth season in college football, Ward not only looks to improve his draft stock, he’s also looking to win – something Miami head coach Mario Cristobal has said is crucial for the Miami QB as they look to come together to better build off last year’s 7-6 campaign.

The ‘Canes will look to get that effort off on the right foot as they enter Week 1 prepared for a big-time rivalry contest against in-state rival Florida. They’ll begin ACC play against Virginia Tech during Week 5 while their schedule also features matchups against Louisville and Florida State.