Nebraska senior defensive back Isaac Gifford has garnered recognition for his accomplishments both on and off the field this week. He was named a semifinalist for the prestigious 2024 William V. Campbell Trophy, often referred to as the academic Heisman, on Wednesday, and earned a spot on the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Watch List on Thursday. Gifford has been a vital player for the Blackshirts, starting 26 games throughout his career, and was an All-Big Ten honoree last season, leading Nebraska with 86 tackles, along with personal bests in tackles for loss (6.5) and pass breakups (nine). This season, he has started in all four games for the 3-1 Huskers and currently ranks second on the team with 22 tackles.
Academically, Gifford shines with a 3.54 GPA, having graduated with a degree in management in December 2023 and now pursuing graduate studies. He is a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree and received the Big Ten Distinguished Scholar award earlier this year. Additionally, Gifford is involved in Nebraska’s Life Skills program and was honored with the Sam Foltz 27 Hero Leadership Award in April, recognizing outstanding student-athletes across all sports at the university.
The National Football Foundation will announce 12-14 finalists for the Campbell Trophy on October 23, as part of the 2024 NFF National Scholar-Athlete Class Presented by Fidelity Investments, with the winner to be revealed on December 10 at the 66th NFF Annual Awards Dinner in Las Vegas. Gifford aims to join the ranks of former Husker winners Rob Zatechka (1994) and Kyle Vanden Bosch (2000).
As for the Jason Witten Collegiate Man of the Year Award, the list will be narrowed down to 20 semifinalists on October 22, with three finalists announced on December 16. The award, focusing on a player’s leadership on and off the field, will be presented at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on February 12, 2025.
Credit: Huskers.com
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