In more award watch list news, senior defensive end Shilique Calhoun and senior linebacker Ed Davis have been named to the 2015 Bednarik Award Watch List. The Bednarik Award has been presented to college football’s defensive player of the year since 1995, according to the press release announcing the list.
The award is named in honor of Chuck Bednarik, a three-year starter at center and linebacker at the University of Pennsylvania who became a two-time first-team All-American. As a senior in 1948, Bednarik won the Maxwell Award (college player of the year) and finished third in the Heisman Trophy balloting.
Davis finished his junior season with 58 total tackles, 12 tackles for a loss, seven sacks and a forced fumble — improving upon a sophomore year in which he posted 17 total tackles, four tackles for a loss and four sacks.
“Ed Davis is a playmaker and a game-changer,” co-defensive coordinator Mike Tressel said. “He’s a tackle for loss or sack waiting to happen. Ed also possesses a high football IQ.”
Calhoun remained a force to be reckoned with — in his sophomore year Calhoun made 37 total tackles, 14 tackles for a loss, 7.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and four fumble recoveries. In his junior year, Calhoun posted 39 total tackles, 12.5 tackles for a loss, eight sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
“Shilique Calhoun is a speed edge rusher with a great first step,” defensive line coach Ron Burton said. “His versatility and quickness off the snap are impressive, but his ability to make tackles in space is what really separates him from the pack."
"Perhaps his biggest asset is his hunger. Shilique returned for his final year of eligibility because he has some unfinished business. He’s been extremely motivated this offseason because there are some team and personal goals he wants to fulfill. Shilique has emerged as a remarkable leader, and his number one priority is to complete his education and earn his bachelor’s degree.”
Semifinalists for the Bednarik Award will be announced Nov. 2. Three finalists for the award will be identified Nov. 23, with the winner announced at the Home Depot College Football Awards Show on Dec. 10 in Atlanta, Georgia.
The formal presentation of the award will be made at the Maxwell Football Club Awards Gala on March 11, 2016, in Atlantic City, N.J.
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