UNC Football: Alijah Huzzie named to the Hornung Award watch list

In Alijah Huzzie's first season with the UNC football program, Tar Heel fans saw just how versatile he is on the football field.

Huzzie was tasked with playing multiple positions in the Tar Heels secondary, as he was the team's best cornerback throughout the entire season. He finished the 2023 season with 42 tackles, six pass breakups and a team-leading three interceptions.

In addition, Huzzie was the team's punt returner and had some explosive moments in the role, as his 16 yards per return (even though it was a small sample size with only seven total returns) was among the best in the country.

Heading into the 2024 season, the UNC football program will once again rely on Huzzie's versatility, as he's earned some well-deserved preseason recognition.

Huzzie was one of 48 student-athletes named to the Paul Hornung Award Preseason Watch List, an award presented annually to the most versatile player in major college football. The graduate student is one of eight ACC players to make this season's watch list.

Quite a few UNC football standouts have earned spots on respective preseason watch lists, as the Tar Heels have a handful of impact players that have earned respect at the national level. It didn't take long for Huzzie to make an impact on the UNC Football program, as they hope that he has another big season ahead in his final season of eligibility.

Huzzie and the UNC football program will begin the 2024 college football regular season with a trip to Minnesota on August 29.