FSU DE Brian Burns named Bednarik Award semifinalist

The semifinalists for the Bednarik Award, recognizing the best defensive player in the country, were announced today and Florida State defensive end Brian Burns is one of 20 players still being considered for the honor.

Burns is currently tied for the lead in the ACC for sacks, with nine, and is ranked fourth nationally in that category. Burns also leads the nation with 85 total yards lost from those sacks. If the sack numbers weren’t impressive enough for the pass rusher, he is also tied for the ACC lead in forced fumbles, with three, which comes out to the fourth most in the nation.

With four games remaining, and FSU in the midst of it’s toughest stretch of games, Burns is still 10 sacks away from equaling Peter Boulware’s single season record. It’s a tall order, but if the junior keeps his current pace, it’s possible that he could be close to the record as the season nears its end.

The pool of semifinalists will be cut down to three finalists on November 19th, with the winner being announced on December 6th. In a disappointing season, Burns has been a bright spot. His dedication to his craft and the resulting production certainly warrants Burns being considered for one of those final three spots.