Michigan State’s Antjuan Simmons on Bednarik Watch List
The Chuck Bednarik Award watch list was revealed on Monday, which is given annually to the best defensive player in college football featured Spartan linebacker, Antjuan Simmons.
Last year, Simmons became a full-time starter on defense where he led the way with a team-high 90 tackles, 15 for a loss, one interception, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, 3.5 sacks, and earned an All-Big Ten honorable mention.
When special teams coordinator and linebackers coach Ross Els was asked about Simmons back in April, he said, "Antjuan can play in the box, can play outside, he can rush the passer, he can cover; he's a special individual. Not just because he can move and he's tough; he's also very intelligent; very intelligent and a great leader."
Els spoke of the high expectations placed on the seniors' shoulders, but says "he's handling it well."
Eight Big Ten Players made the watch list, including Simmons.
In 2019 Ohio State's Chase Young won the award before entering the 2020 NFL Draft, where he was selected with the No. 2 overall pick by Washington.
Other Big Ten Candidates
- LB Jake Hansen: Illinois
- DE George Karlaftis: Purdue
- CB Tiawan Mullen: Indiana
- LB Micah Parsons: Penn State
- DE Kwity Paye: Michigan
- CB Ambry Thomas: Michigan
- CB Shaun Wade: Ohio State
Tell us what you think in the comment section below.
Want the latest breaking MSU news delivered straight to your email for FREE? Sign up for the DAILY Spartan Nation newsletter when you CLICK THE MAGAZINE ICON at the top left of the page or the FOLLOW button back on the main page. Don't miss any of the latest up to the second updates on Michigan State Sports when you follow on Twitter @HondoCarpenter @McLainGrant1 @JDeuceDullack
