Wendell Gregory a Semifinalist for Freshman of the Year Award

This hasn’t been anything close to an award-worthy season, but one freshman has the Cowboys alive for some hardware with three games left.

Wendell Gregory is one of 14 semifinalists for Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award after the list came out on Wednesday. Gregory is up against six quarterbacks, who always seem to win these things. However, being on a shortlist is still incredible.

Gregory is one of five defensive players on the list and one of two to receive the Edge distinction. So in a way, Gregory could already be considered one of the best freshman defenders in the country just for appearing on the list.

Gregory exploded onto the scene this fall when he recorded three sacks in the win over UT Martin to open the season. He hasn’t recorded another sack since then, although there have been a number of close calls.

Despite facing increased attention from blockers, Gregory still leads all FBS freshmen with 10.5 tackles for loss.

The Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award will be presented Maxwell Football Club Awards gala.