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Midseason First and Second Team All-American Projections

By Zach Bigalke

Oct 22, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against North Carolina State Wolfpack linebacker Airius Moore (58) during the first quarter at Papa John
Oct 22, 2016; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs the ball against North Carolina State Wolfpack linebacker Airius Moore (58) during the first quarter at Papa John /
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Oct 8, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) returns the interception during the second half against the Indiana Hoosiers at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; Columbus, OH, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes safety Malik Hooker (24) returns the interception during the second half against the Indiana Hoosiers at Ohio Stadium. The Buckeyes won 38-17. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /

S: Malik Hooker (Ohio State)

Malik Hooker has been a dominant presence in a secondary that is tied for fourth in the country in turnover ratio and ranks fifth nationally in points allowed, passing yards allowed, and opponent passing efficiency. The redshirt sophomore has four interceptions in seven games this year, putting him at sixth in the country in interception rate per game. This includes one that he returned 26 yards for a touchdown against Tulsa:

To go with his four interceptions, Hooker also has three pass breakups along with half a sack and four tackles for loss. The defensive back is third on the team in total tackles, and still has several more statement games to bolster his position in the eyes of All-American selectors. If he continues to shut down opponents’ top corners as he has for much of this season, a consensus choice could be in his near future.

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