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Utah defensive end Nate Orchard was announced yesterday as one of 12 semifinalists for the Rotary Lombardi Award, presented to the College Lineman of the Year. It is the second major defensive award to name Orchard a semifinalist this week. The senior is also a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award as the nation's outstanding defensive player.
Orchard has 12 of Utah's nation-leading 39 sacks, which ties him for second individually. He is also tied for second in the nation in sacks per game (1.5) and is tied for third in tackles for loss per game (1.8).
The Rotary Lombardi award goes to the offensive or defensive lineman who best exemplifies the character and discipline of Vince Lombardi. Orchard is a three-year starter and a team captain. The Lombardi award winner will be announced on Dec. 10 in Houston.
Congratulations to Nate Orchard on being named a semifinalist for the Bednarik Award. #proud #utahfootballfamily pic.twitter.com/LuCqZBsYbo
— Kyle Whittingham (@UtahCoachWhitt) November 3, 2014