KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Vols sophomore defensive back Jermod McCoy has been selected as one of 15 semifinalists for the Jim Thorpe Award, which honors the top defensive back in college football. The three finalists will be revealed on November 26, with the winner announced on December 12.
McCoy is the eighth player from Tennessee to earn this distinction, following Eric Berry, the only Vol to win the award in 2009.
This season, McCoy has not allowed any touchdowns over more than 200 coverage snaps and ranks fifth in the SEC with seven passes defended. He has also recorded two interceptions, including a critical one-handed interception in the end zone against Jalen Milroe during Tennessee’s 24-17 victory over Alabama.
Additionally, Pro Football Focus has given McCoy an impressive grade of 85.4, placing him third in the SEC and tenth nationally.
