College Football greatness is measured in National Championships and Heismans, but just like the NFL, the NCAA honors the top players at every major position.
The Maxwell Award goes to the best overall player, regardless of position. The Biletnikoff Award recognizes the top wide receiver, while the Doak Walker Award goes to the top rusher.
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The college football regular season awards encompass a diverse range of accolades, recognizing the league’s most outstanding performers across various positions and facets of the game.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the most prominent awards and the selection process for each:
- Heisman Trophy: Arguably the sport’s most recognizable individual honor, the Heisman Trophy recognizes the most outstanding college football player. This award typically goes to a quarterback who demonstrates exceptional passing prowess and leadership, but dominant running backs or disruptive defensive players can also enter the Heisman conversation. A panel of journalists, former players, and coaches votes on the Heisman Trophy winner.
- Maxwell Award: This award honors the nation’s best collegiate college football player, regardless of position. Quarterbacks often take center stage, but exceptional seasons by running backs or even offensive linemen can be recognized. Votes for the Maxwell Award are cast by the Maxwell Football Club.
- Davey O’Brien Award: This accolade celebrates the nation’s most outstanding quarterback. Exceptional passing ability, touchdown production, and leadership are all key factors considered when selecting the Davey O’Brien Award winner. A panel of college football analysts and sportswriters determines the recipient.
- Doak Walker Award: This award recognizes the nation’s most impactful running back. Explosive breakaway ability, consistent yardage production, and a knack for finding the end zone are all crucial qualities for Doak Walker Award contenders. The Doak Walker Award winner is selected by the PwC SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors.
- Biletnikoff Award: This distinction honors the nation’s most outstanding college football receiver. Exceptional route running, reliable hands, yards after the catch, and overall production are all considered when selecting the Biletnikoff Award winner. A panel of college football journalists and sportswriters votes on the Biletnikoff Award recipient.
- Outland Trophy: This award recognizes the nation’s most dominant interior lineman, either a center or guard. Strength, technique, and the ability to create running lanes for offensive teammates are all crucial aspects considered by the selectors of the Outland Trophy. The award is presented by the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA)
- Bednarik Award: This accolade honors the nation’s best defensive player, regardless of position. Linebackers with exceptional tackling prowess, disruptive edge rushers, or lockdown cornerbacks can all find themselves in the Bednarik Award conversation. The Bednarik Award winner is selected by the Maxwell Football Club.
