We The People: This Day in History, December 8
Johnny Manziel Makes History as First Freshman Heisman Winner
Published: Dec. 8, 2025 at 8:17 AM CST
COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KWTX) - On December 8, 2012, Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel became the first freshman to win the Heisman trophy.
Known as “Johnny Football,” Manziel had a record-setting season that year.
He threw for 3,706 yards and 26 touchdowns while rushing for 1,410 yards and 21 touchdowns.
He became the first player in NCAA history to pass for 3,000 yards and rush for 1,000 yards in the same season.
His 5,116 total yards broke the SEC record.
Manziel attended Kerrville Tivy High School.
He made it to the pros as quarterback for the Cleveland Browns from 2014 to 2015.
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