UNC Football: Rucker named to Bednarik Award watch list

The UNC football standout has rightfully earned a place on the Bednarik Award watch list, as he was one of 13 new additions.

Kaimon Rucker has been a force for the UNC football program’s defense all season long.

The Hartwell, Georgia native has 6.5 sacks through six games, which ties him for seventh-most in the FBS.  According to Pro Football Focus, Rucker’s 22 hurries are tied for the fourth-most in the country among edge rushers, as he’s also tallied 29 total tackles and 10 tackles for lost so far this season.

To put it into perspective, Rucker is on pace to have 13 sacks this season. If he accomplishes that feat, he’ll only trail legends Lawrence Taylor and Julius Peppers among the UNC football program’s single-season sacks leaders.

Recognizing his outstanding contributions this season, Rucker has been added to the Bednarik Award watch list.

The Chuck Bednarik Award is an annual award that is given to the most outstanding defensive player in college football. As the list gets updated throughout the season, Rucker was one of 13 defensive players to be added to the mix.

The UNC football program now has two players on the list, as Cedric Gray was a preseason selection and has remained in the mix.

North Carolina has improved on the defensive side of the ball, as Rucker has played a pivotal role in helping the unit turn things around. The success on the defensive side of the ball has played a large role in the Tar Heels’ 6-0 start, as Rucker and the defense hope to keep the pressure coming over the final few weeks of the regular season.

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