On3.com announced today that South Carolina senior, Imani Jones, has been added to two major award watch lists for the upcoming college football season. Jones, a standout linebacker for the Gamecocks, has been named a candidate for both the Bednarik Award, which honors the top defensive player in college football, and the Butkus Award, which recognizes the nation’s best linebacker.
Jones, a native of Columbia, South Carolina, had an impressive junior season in 2020, recording 75 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks. His performance earned him All-SEC honors and solidified his status as one of the top defensive players in the conference. Now entering his senior year, Jones is poised to build on his success and make a run at these prestigious awards.
South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer praised Jones for his dedication and work ethic, stating, “Imani is the heart and soul of our defense. He sets the tone for our team with his relentless pursuit of the ball and his leadership on and off the field. I have no doubt that he will continue to shine this season and make a strong case for these awards.”
Jones is known for his speed, instincts, and hard-hitting style of play, making him a formidable presence on the field. He will be a key player for the Gamecocks as they aim to improve on last year’s 2-8 record and compete in the competitive SEC.
With the season just around the corner, Jones’ inclusion on these award watch lists is a reflection of his talent and potential. Gamecock fans can look forward to seeing him showcase his skills on the field and make a push for national recognition.
Source
Photo credit news.google.com