Russell, Metz named national award semifinalists

Alabama quarterback Keelon Russell and linebacker Luke Metz were named semifinalists for national awards by the Maxwell Football Club on Nov. 10. Russell made the 18-player Maxwell Award list, while Metz joined the 18-player field for the Bednarik Award.

Russell won Alabama’s starting job late in fall camp and has completed 165 of 245 passes for 2,263 yards, 18 touchdowns and five interceptions. He also has 276 yards on 74 carries, and his five rushing touchdowns are tied for the team lead.

That production has placed Russell in the top 25 nationally and top four in the SEC in passing yards, touchdowns, points with 140 and total offense at 282.1. The Maxwell Award is presented annually to the nation’s top offensive player.

Metz, a second-year linebacker who became a starter this season, ranks second at Alabama with 68 tackles. He leads the Crimson Tide with four takeaways: two interceptions and two fumble recoveries. At Kentucky on Sept. 12, Metz returned an interception for a touchdown.

Metz also has five quarterback hurries, second on the defense, and half a tackle for loss. He directs an Alabama unit that leads the SEC and ranks third nationally with 21 takeaways, including 13 interceptions and five interception returns for touchdowns.

Alabama has produced five Maxwell Award winners: AJ McCarron, Derrick Henry, Tua Tagovailoa, DeVonta Smith and Bryce Young. Jonathan Allen, Minkah Fitzpatrick and Will Anderson Jr. account for the Crimson Tide’s three Bednarik Award winners.

Why it matters

Russell’s passing and rushing production has put Alabama’s starting quarterback in contention for the award given to the nation’s top offensive player. Metz leads the Crimson Tide in takeaways while directing a defense that leads the SEC with 21.

What to watch next

Finalists for both awards will be named Nov. 24. The winners will be announced during the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show on Dec. 11.