Sanders Named Semifinalist for Bednarik Award

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Arkansas linebacker Drew Sanders has been named one of 20 semifinalists for the Chuck Bednarik Award, which is presented to the most outstanding defensive player in college football.

Sanders has emerged as one of the Razorbacks’ top defensive playmakers this season. The Denton, Texas, native has racked up 65 total tackles, second most on the Hogs, with a team-best 7.5 tackles for loss and a team-high 6.5 sacks through eight games. With his help, Arkansas leads the SEC in sacks per game (3.0) and ranks second in total sacks (24).

Sanders, the SEC leader in sacks (6.5) and forced fumbles (3), has four double-digit tackle games this season, most among all Razorback defenders. He is one of only two SEC defenders since 2000 to have recorded double-digit tackles with two sacks, two forced fumbles and a pass breakup in a game.

Most notably, Sanders was named the Butkus Award National Linebacker of the Month for September after finishing the month tied for the national lead in sacks (5.5) while pacing Arkansas in tackles for loss (6.5) and forced fumbles (2).

Finalists for the Chuck Bednarik Award will be unveiled on Nov. 22. The winners of the 28th Chuck Bednarik Award will be announced as part of the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show held on Dec. 8. The formal presentation of the Bednarik Award will be made at the Maxwell Football Club Awards live from Atlantic City, N.J., on March 10, 2023.