Western Kentucky’s running back George Hart III is turning heads, earning a spot as a preseason candidate for the prestigious 2025 Doak Walker Award, as announced Tuesday by the PwC SMU Athletic Forum. This honor, handed out annually to the nation’s top college running back, carries the name of SMU’s legendary three-time All-America tailback, Doak Walker. It’s a big stage, and Hart’s ready to run through it.
Hart, now in his second season with the Hilltoppers, showed flashes of brilliance last year. Appearing in all 14 games, he racked up 206 yards and two touchdowns on 43 carries, finishing as WKU’s second-leading rusher. He also chipped in seven receptions for 34 yards, proving he’s a threat in multiple facets. Before landing in Bowling Green, Hart logged 25 games over three seasons at Arizona State, bringing a seasoned edge to the WKU backfield. With the Hilltoppers gearing up for the 2025 campaign, Hart’s poised to take the lead and make some noise.
The PwC SMU Athletic Forum isn’t messing around with this award. Every Tuesday during the season, they’ll name a Doak Walker National Running Back of the Week. Come November, the Forum’s Board of Directors will trim the field to 10 semifinalists, with three finalists announced later that month, as voted by the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee. This crew, packed with past recipients, former NFL All-Pros, college All-Americans, media members, and special reps, will cast a final vote in December to crown the winner. The big reveal happens live on The Home Depot College Football Awards on Dec. 12.
WKU’s season kicks off early, with a Week 0 CUSA showdown against Sam Houston on Saturday, Aug. 23, at Houchens-Smith Stadium. The 6 p.m. CT kickoff will be broadcast nationally on CBS Sports Network, giving Hart a prime opportunity to showcase his skills on a national stage. If his 2024 performance is any indication, the Hilltoppers’ ground game is in good hands, and Hart could be on a collision course with Doak Walker Award glory.
