Written By: Roy Countryman @Blitzalytics
@PrecherBoyRoy
Onward we are marching into the action for week 4 of the college season, and there were many players who have made a big impression on the voters for this very prestigious award. The distinguishing traits portrayed by the winners expand too far beyond the hash marks, and each candidate must strive to show a commitment to their school work, as well as in the community.
The winner this week is none other than the tackling machine, Ben Burr-Kirven.
Burr-Kirven was running around making plays sideline-to-sideline, totaling a career-high 20 tackles, including 14 solo, two forced fumbles, while recovering one. This is not the first time that Burr-Kirven has been able to produce gaudy numbers this year, he was also named PAC-12 Player of the week in consecutive weeks. Including an 11 tackle performance against conference foe Utah. Not only is Burr-Kirven a heady player on the field who uses that intelligence to quickly diagnose plays, he is a two-time All-Academic First Team player. He has a varied skill set that includes being a decorated track star in high school as a sprinter.
Scout’s Take: Ben Burr-Kirven is a tackling machine. He uses great speed, and acceleration combined with upper-echelon play recognition to close on ball carriers. Not only can he quickly diagnose plays, but he shows up with authority and with tremendous tackling mechanics. He can be tasked with dropping off into zone coverages and be able to carry RB’s and TE’s downfield due to his well-rounded skill set. He has a nose for the ball, and always seems to be around when a big play is happening. He should continue to threaten for multiple nominations for the Lott IMPACT Trophy Award.
Other Deserving Candidates:
Josh Allen, LB: Kentucky
Vs. Mississippi State-6 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 PD, and 1 QB Hurry.
Scout’s take: Josh Allen was a pass rushing force against Mississippi State, and was regularly in the opponent’s backfield. At times he seemed to be lining up on the offensive side of the ball, as he was in the QB’s face on virtually every snap. Allen is a long, and strong defender who can make an impact on the game in a variety of ways of the field. He is at his best though when he can line up outside, and use his length, burst, and strength to dominate offensive lineman.
Devin White, LB: LSU
Vs. Louisiana Tech-11 tackles, 2.5 TFL, 1 Sack, and 1 Fumble Recovery.
Scout’s take: Devin White is a stud ILB prospect, who can really take over a game inside the hashes due to his sideline-to-sideline ability as well as his strong instincts. White shows a good burst, strength to stack and shed, as well as a knack for penetrating gaps to make big plays.
Christian Wilkins, DT: Clemson
Vs. Georgia Tech-5 tackles, 2 TFL,1 Sack, and 1 Fumble Recovery.
Scout’s take: Wilkins is a physical freak, who can play up and down the defensive line. Blessed with a strength, and quickness to rock OL back on their heels, offensive coordinators must gameplan for him. Wilkins possesses the strong hands necessary to shed blocks, and a motor to scrap off lineman and finish plays.
Congratulations to Ben Burr-Kirven, and best of luck to the candidates in Week 5.