Troy University Athletics
Photo by: Kevin Glackmeyer
Massaquoi Named to Bednarik Watch List
7/5/2011 1:12:39 PM | Football
Maxwell Football Club
Troy University junior defensive end Jonathan Massaquoi was one of 65 players from across college football named to the Watch List for the 2011 Bednarik Award, which is annually presented by the Maxwell Football Club.
The 2011 Bednarik Award will be the 17th annual award, which is named in honor of college and pro football Hall of Famer Chuck Bednarik, is presented to the college defensive player of the year. Voters for the Bednarik Award include college head coaches, members of the Maxwell Football Club and sports writers and broadcasters from across the country.
The 2010 Bednarik Award winner was LSU defensive back Patrick Peterson.
Massaquoi posted 76 total tackles in 2010 including a team-leading 20.5 tackles for losses of 111 yards. He also recorded 13.5 sacks for 97 yards and recovered three fumbles. He ranks third among all returning players in TFL and second in sacks.
Massaquoi was the only player from the Sun Belt Conference on the Bednarik Watch List and was one of only five players from BCS non-automatic qualifing conference in the FBS.
Trojans coach Larry Blakeney, who knows a thing or two about top quality defensive ends after having coaches Demarcus Ware and Osi Umenyiora, among others, said Massaquoi is certainly deserving of the recognition.
"He is a fine athlete, especially for his position at defensive end," Blakeney said. "He is also a very hard worker and understands what you have to do to get your body in shape. I am very proud of his play to this point and I think he has a chance to really be an outstanding college football player. He is a deserving candidate for the Bednarik Award."
Massaquoi and the Trojans will be in search of their sixth consecutive Sun Belt Conference title when the team opens the 2011 season on September 3 at Clemson. Tickets for all five home games for the 2011 season, as well as all road games, are available through the Troy University Athletics Ticket Office.
Call 888-878-9467 or 334-670-3681 for information on purchasing tickets.
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