Nine Ohio State Players Named Finalists for National Awards

Caleb DownsOhio State might need an extra vehicle for its trophy haul at the College Football Awards on Dec. 12.

Buckeyes are finalists for nine different national awards. One player from each level of Ohio State's defense will have a chance at hardware. Safety Caleb Downs is nominated for no less than four.

A 2024 finalist for the Thorpe Award, given to the nation's best defensive back, Downs will get a second shot at winning the trophy after Tennessee cornerback Jahdae Barron ultimately took it home last season. But Downs' ambitions go beyond being recognized as the best defensive back in the nation. He's also up for both major defensive player of the year awards: the Chuck Bednarik Award…