UM’s Duke Johnson, Denzel Perryman named award contenders

Hurricanes running back Duke Johnson and linebacker Denzel Perryman were recognized on Monday as semifinalists for major awards.

Johnson, a junior, is a candidate for the Maxwell Award that goes to the “Collegiate Player of the Year,’’ and senior Perryman is a candidate for the Chuck Bednarik Award that goes to the “Outstanding Defensive Player of the Year.’’

The respective lists encompass a field of 20 semifinalists, including quarterback Jameis Winston of Florida State, running back Ameer Abdullah of Nebraska and quarterback Marcus Mariota of Oregon for the Maxell; and Clemson defensive end Vic Beasley and Florida cornerback Vernon Hargreaves III.

Johnson’s 1,213 rushing yards are sixth-most in the nation. He ranks second nationally with 1,486 all-purpose yards.

Perryman has 72 tackles in nine starts, with five tackles for loss, two sacks, two forced fumbles, four pass breakups and one interception.

UM was one of just 10 programs with a semifinalist for both awards.

This story was originally published November 3, 2014 at 10:20 PM with the headline "UM’s Duke Johnson, Denzel Perryman named award contenders."