USC football: Leonard Williams among Bednarik Award semifinalists

USC defensive lineman Leonard Williams is among 16 semifinalists for the Bednarik Award, presented annually to college football’s outstanding defensive player.

Williams is the only sophomore among the semifinalists announced Tuesday.

Three finalists will be announced Nov. 25 and the winner will be announced Dec. 12.

Williams, a Freshman All-American last season, has a team-leading 54 tackles for the Trojans, who play at Oregon State on Friday night.

Williams has 11 tackles for losses, including five sacks.

Williams had eight tackles in USC’s 19-3 victory over Utah last week.

UCLA linebacker Anthony Barr also is among the semifinalists.

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