Pair of Bearcats Named Finalists For Major National Awards

Both players will learn their fate at the Home Depot College Football Awards.

Author:
Russ Heltman
Updated:
Nov 29, 2022 10:32 AM EST

CINCINNATI — A pair of Bearcats just got announced as finalists for major national college football awards.

Linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. is a finalist for the Bednarik Award, earned annually by the best defensive player in college football.

All while, Cincinnati punter Mason Fletcher became a finalist for the Ray Guy Award, given annually to the best punter in CFB.

The two-time AAC Special Teams Player of the Week sits fourth nationally in punting average (46.7) and UC's net average of 44.69 yards is second-best nationally. Fletcher was also selected as the Ray Guy National Punter of the Week once this season.

Pace has been the lifeblood fueling UC's defense all year. he totaled 120 tackles this year (seventh nationally) and his 19.5 TFLs rank third in the nation to go with nine sacks (14th).

The senior transfer is also a finalist for the Butkus Award (top linebacker).

The winners are announced during the 32nd annual The Home Depot College Football Awards on Dec. 8 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. ET on ESPN.

Make sure you bookmark All Bearcats for the latest news, exclusive interviews, film breakdowns and so much more.

You May Also Like the following:

It's About Time For Primetime In Clifton

UC Football Portal Tracker 2022-23

Report: Luke Fickell Gets Significant Pay Bump At Wisconsin, Bringing Key Staff Member

Report: Luke Fickell's UC Exit Weeks In The Making

UC Wide Receiver Tre Tucker Accepts Senior Bowl Invite

Report: UC Football Names Kerry Coombs Interim Head Coach

Seven Potential Candidates To Replace Luke Fickell

Watch: UC AD John Cunningham Speaks With Media Following Luke Fickell Exit