November 22, 2021

The senior linebacker was tabbed as one of six players who could win the nation’s top linebacker award

CHICAGO – Cincinnati senior linebacker Darrian Beavers was named a finalist for the 37th annual Butkus Award on Tuesday. The award honors the nation’s best collegiate linebacker and was announced by the Butkus Foundation.
 
Beavers is one of six finalists for the award. Selection is handled by a panel of 51 coaches, recruiters, scouts and journalists who vote separately and confidentially using a 3-2-1 process, with a write-in option offered. Selectors and selection criteria are posted at www.thebutkusaward.com. The winners for high school and college awards will be announced on or before December 7.
 
The Butkus Award is partnering with Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa, Rancho Mirage, Calif. to celebrate Butkus Award winners. The event is scheduled Saturday, Feb. 5, 2022.
 
Beavers has had an outstanding final season as a versatile linebacker for the Bearcats, leading the UC to an 11-0 mark and a third consecutive appearance in the AAC Championship Game.
 
The Cincinnati native ranks second on the Blackcats defense with 78 tackles and 8.0 tackles for loss, while totaling 3.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. The Bearcats’ defense ranks sixth in the country in points allowed (16.0) and seventh in yards allowed (305.2).

COURTESY UC ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS