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The college football season has reached the halfway mark. That means analysts will release their midseason awards.
On Tuesday, ESPN released its mid-year All-American team. The roster featured three B1G players: Penn State running back Saquon Barkley, Wisconsin offensive lineman David Edwards and Iowa linebacker Josey Jewell. Here is what ESPN had to say on all three:
Saquon Barkley-“Before the season, many would qualify their quarterback-centric Heisman predictions with, “But Saquon Barkley could be the nation’s best player.” Well, halfway through the season, Barkley is the nation’s best player, and he’s also getting the Heisman love he deserves. A national audience witnessed his 43-touch, 357-yard performance at Iowa, and he has done something to dazzle every time he steps on the field. From running to receiving to returning to pass blocking, Barkley does it all, as evidenced by his 1,318 all-purpose yards.”
David Edwards-“It has taken a few years of development, but Wisconsin’s offensive line is close to regaining its form as one of the nation’s best units. Edwards is among the underclassman standouts for the Badgers, and the sophomore earned very high marks from the coaches in the first half. He has sparked a rushing attack that has eclipsed 230 yards in four of five games and twice exceeded 350 yards. After starting seven games as a freshman, Edwards is well on his way to becoming a premier lineman in college football.”
Josey Jewell-“The Big Ten’s leader in total tackles (70; the next closest has 44) also has 9.5 tackles for loss and has been one of the nation’s most productive defenders. He reached 60 tackles on the season faster than any Big Ten player reached 40. While Barkley justifiably got the praise in the Penn State-Iowa game, Jewell was excellent, too, in limiting Penn State’s potent offense. He not only raids opposing backfields but also stands out in pass coverage.”
Here is the rest of ESPN’s mid-year All-American team.