Saturday Blitz 2014 College Football Awards: Marcus Mariota, Scooby Wright Lead the Pack

Nov 29, 2014; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals safety Gerod Holliman (8) returns an interception against the Kentucky Wildcats during the second half at Papa John

Most Outstanding Defensive Back: Gerod Holliman, Louisville Cardinals- 14 Interceptions, 1 INT Returned for a Touchdown, 37 Tackles, 3 Tackles for a Loss, 1 Sack, 1 Forced Fumble

Awards: Jim Thorpe Award

You have to acknowledge the player who came through with a record-tying season for interceptions in the secondary. Gerod Holliman’s track record as a playmaker for the Louisville Cardinals can’t be ignored, and in addition to picking up 14 interceptions, he also had a sack, 3 tackles for a loss, and a forced fumble on the year, showing his diversity.

Oh, and Holliman had 3 interceptions to beat Boston College and sealed the game with a pick against Kentucky, so he’s also a difference-maker. That counts.

Other Finalists:

Landon Collins, Alabama Crimson Tide- 2 Interceptions, 1 INT Returned for a Touchdown, 69 Tackles, 4 Tackles for a Loss, 2 Forced Fumbles

Landon Collins has done his job as a hard-hitter and a playmaker, but it has simply not been enough to be on the same level as Holliman. Yes, he more of a physical player, but Holliman’s playmaking as a tackler is comparable to his as well.

Ifo Ekpre-Olomu, Oregon Ducks- 3 Interceptions, 84 Tackles, 5 Tackles for a Loss, 1 Forced Fumble

Ifo Ekpre-Olomu is another physical player who can line up anywhere on the field, but his actual coverage is suspect. Having 84 tackles as a cornerback often comes with giving up plays as well, so he can’t be mentioned as the best.

Next: Most Outstanding Kicker