Rewind: Sooner Football 2015 Preseason National Award Candidates

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Eric Striker

Oct 11, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Oklahoma Sooners linebacker Eric Striker (19) in action against the Texas Longhorns during the Red River showdown at the Cotton Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

The senior linebacker is the only Oklahoma Sooner being considered for four national awards this season. Eric Striker is a two-time All-Big 12 First Team selection and was named to the All-America Third Team by the Associated Press in 2014.

Bednarik Award – Striker and teammates Zack Sanchez and Charles Tapper are all candidates for the Bednarik Award. The award recognizes the College Defensive Player of the Year. Teddy Lehman (2003) is the only Oklahoma player to ever receive this national honor, which dates back to 1995.

Butkus Award – Four Oklahoma Sooners have won this award previously, including twice by Brian Bosworth (in 1985 and 1986). The annual honor goes to the top linebacker at the college, high school and professional levels. Rocky Calmus (2001) and Teddy Lehman (2003) have also been past recipients.

Rotary Lombardi Award – Sooner teammate Dominique Alexander joins Striker on the preseason watch list for this national honor, which is presented annually to the best down lineman in college football.

Nagurski Award – Four different Sooner players are vying for the 2015 Nagurski Award, which goes to the best defensive player in college football. Joining Striker on the 2015 preseason Nagurski Award watch list are linebacker Dominique Alexander, cornerback Zack Sanchez and defensive end Charles Tapper.

Next: Defensive End Charles Tapper