By Martin Harris
BYU running back Luke Staley was named a finalist for the Doak Walker Award on Tuesday, Nov. 27.
The Walker Award honors the nation''s best running back. Staley joins Bruce Perry of Maryland and Travis Stephens of Tennessee.
'I believe Luke is very deserving of this recognition,' head coach Gary Crowton said. 'He has displayed character on and off the field.'
If Staley wins the award, he would be the first Cougar recipient in the 11-year history of the Walker Award.
The award recognizes the achievements of the nation''s premier running back on the field, in the classroom and in the community.
Staley has spent this season leading the Cougars to an 11-0 record, while simultaneously rewriting BYU record books.
He has scored 28 touchdowns this season, rushed for 1,433 yards, has twice scored five touchdowns in a game, and has scored 170 points this year. All of these statistics are BYU records. Staley also has the career touchdown scoring record with 48.
The winner will be announced on the College Football Awards Show on Dec. 6. The show will be aired live at 7 p.m. on ESPN.