Wisconsin senior linebacker Chris Borland is one of 16 semifinalists for the Chuck Bednarik Award, given to the outstanding defensive player of the year.
Borland is also one of 12 semifinalists for the Butkus Award, presented to the top linebacker in the country every year.
Borland also adds to the list, by being named one of 20 quarterfinalists for the Lott IMPACT trophy, which honors college football’s Defensive IMPACT Player of the Year.
Borland leads a Badgers defense that ranks sixth in the country in both points and total yards allowed. He leads UW and is tied for seventh in the Big Ten with 57 tackles. That includes a conference-best 16-tackle effort at No. 4 Ohio State on Sept. 28.
Teammate Melvin Gordon is one of 16 semifinalists for the Maxwell Award for the collegiate player of the year. One of four running backs on the list, Gordon leads the Big Ten and ranks fourth in the country in rushing yards per game (144.6). He leads the country in yards per carry at 9.5 yards per carry and is tied for the Big Ten lead with 11 touchdowns.