IOWA CITY, Iowa -- University of Iowa junior defensive back Josh Jackson has been added to the Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List, the Maxwell Football Club announced Friday. The award is presented annually to the nation’s best defensive player.
The 6-foot-1 192-pound native of Corinth, Texas (Lake Dallas HS) has started all five games for the Hawkeyes this season. Jackson is tied for first in the Big Ten with two pass interceptions and 10 passes defended. He leads Iowa with eight pass break-ups, including a blocked field goal in a win over North Texas. Jackson has also handled punt return duties, averaging 8.3 yards on three returns.
Jackson joins senior linebacker Josey Jewell on the Bednarik Award Watch List. Jewell was named to the list over the summer.
Semifinalists for the Bednarik Award will be announced Oct. 30, with three finalists being announced Nov. 20. The winner of the Bednarik Award will be announced as part of the Home Depot College Football Awards Show on Dec. 7 at the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta.
The Hawkeyes (3-2, 0-2) host Illinois (2-2, 0-1) on Homecoming this Saturday. Kickoff is set for 11:01 a.m. (CT). The game will be televised on BTN. Live stats and a live radio stream are available on hawkeyesports.com.