Five Freshmen Named Shaun Alexander Award Semifinalists

Five freshmen from Ohio State, Pitt, Alabama, Notre Dame and Vanderbilt were named among 14 semifinalists for the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award. Ohio State cornerback Jay Timmons has six pass breakups and two forced fumbles in five appearances, though a hamstring injury has sidelined him recently. Pitt running back has led the Panthers with 662 rushing yards and six touchdowns, while Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell has thrown for 2,057 yards and 15 touchdowns and added five rushing scores. Notre Dame running back Jonaz Walton is averaging 6.9 yards per carry and had a 181-yard game against Stanford. Vanderbilt defensive back Mason Lewis has recorded 35 tackles and five pass breakups, with strong coverage grades among FBS freshmen. The award recognizes outstanding freshman players, with finalists due to be announced Dec. 2.