Perry Named Doak Walker Award Finalist
11/27/2001 7:00:00 AM | Football
Nov. 27, 2001
COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors today revealed the three finalists for the 2001 Doak Walker Award. In alphabetical order, they are: Bruce Perry of Maryland, Lucas Staley of BYU, and Travis Stephens of Tennessee.
"Our three finalists are not only solid citizens and fantastic role models, they happen to be fine running backs as well," said Randall Goss, Chairman of the SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors "These three young men are exceptional athletes, epitomizing the enduring spirit of true sportsmanship. They have represented their universities, their communities and NCAA college football with a full measure of honor, respectability and integrity. We are honored to recognize their great accomplishments on and off the field."
Perry, a sophomore from Philadelphia, Pa., helped the Terrapins to their first Atlantic Coast Conference championship since 1985 by rushing for 1,242 yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. He had five 100-yard games during the season. Perry is a finalist for the award despite not being named to the award's original watch list.
Staley, a junior from Tualatin, Ore., ranks second in the nation in rushing, averaging 143.3 yards per game (1,433 yards in 10 games) for the 10-0 Cougars. He leads the nation in rushing touchdowns (24), total touchdowns (28) and yards per carry (8.5).
Stephens, a senior from, Clarksville, Tenn., leads the Southeastern Conference in rushing with 1,201 yards and has scored eight touchdowns. He ranks 12th nationally in rushing, averaging 120.1 yards per game.
The winner of the 2001 Doak Walker Award will be announced live on the Home Depot College Football Awards Show, which will air on ESPN at 9:00 p.m. (EST) on Thursday, December 6, 2001.
The 2001 winner will receive his Award at the Doak Walker Award Presentation Banquet on Monday, January 28, 2002 in the Regency Ballroom of The Fairmont Hotel in Dallas.
