DALLAS-Wednesday, BYU sophomore tailback Lopini Katoa was named as a preseason candidate for the Doak Walker Award in its 30th year of existence.
Named for the three-time All-American tailback who starred at Southern Methodist and later with the NFL’s Detroit Lions, this award honors the top tailback in college football annually.
This is the only major collegiate award requiring all candidates to be in good academic standing and on schedule to graduate within one year of other students in the same classification.
Last season, Katoa amassed 423 yards on 76 carries (5.6 yards per rush) and ran for nine scores.
The native of American Fork, Utah also ranked third on the squad in all-purpose yards with 537 yards.
10 semifinalists for this award will be named in November before three finalists will be announced November 20.
The recipient of this award will be named live during The Home Depot College Football Awards Show December 12 on ESPN.
