Smith Snowden, the Utah junior cornerback with stats that could make any opposing quarterback double-check their playbook, just got his name etched on the Chuck Bednarik Award Watchlist. The Maxwell Football Club was impressed with his performance last season, as they singled him out on Monday as a contender for the title of Defensive Player of the Year, an honor that's been sought after since '95.
Now, playing in all 12 games last year, and starting 11 of them as nickel back, Snowden did more than just show up; he showed off. He packed in a total of 48 tackles, according to UtahUtes.com. And it wasn't just tackling; he was on a five-game streak of at least five stops. Not to lag in the versatility department, he also took on kick return duties later in the season, culminating in a season-high three returns for 83 yards against BYU.
For those keeping an eye on the prize, semifinalists for the coveted Bednarik Award will be announced come November 11, with the top three contenders revealed on November 25. The grand announcement will roll around as part of the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show, slated for December 11.
