UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State safety Jaquan Brisker was named a Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist on Monday. Twelve players were named to the list that recognizes the nation's top defensive back.
The award is based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character, with the winner being announced on December 9th, at The Home Depot College Football Awards. The current winner and all former winners are invited each year to celebrate. Over 600 supporters attend the Paycom Jim Thorpe Award Banquet each year, including many celebrities and dignitaries. The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award commemorative banquet is scheduled to be held Tuesday, February 8, 2022, in Oklahoma City.
Jaquan Brisker
- Brisker was tabbed a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award.
- Brisker was named Midseason All-America by the Associated Press, ESPN and The Athletic (first team). • Brisker is on preseason watch lists for the Bednarik Award, Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Jim Thorpe Award and Reese's Senior Bowl. He additionally was named a second-team Preseason All-American by the Associated Press.
- Brisker has at least a half tackle for loss in six of seven games this season.
- According to Pro Football Focus, Brisker has played 738 coverage snaps without allowing a touchdown, the most in college football since 2019.
- Against Wisconsin, two Lackawanna College alums played a big role. Brisker and senior S Ji'Ayir Brown each recorded interceptions in the closing minutes to seal the victory.
- Brisker's interception stopped a Wisconsin drive inside the Penn State 10. He returned the interception 41 yards.
- Brisker added a tackle for loss and a pass breakup against the Badgers.
- Brisker recorded an interception in the first quarter against Iowa. He added a career-high-tying nine tackles (seven solo).
- Brisker tallied eight tackles and a fumble recovery against Illinois.
For information on joining the Nittany Lion Club and ticket information for the 2021 Penn State Football season presented by PSECU, as well as club seating in Beaver Stadium, fans can visit www.PSUnrivaled.com, or call 1-800-NITTANY weekdays from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
The 2021 Penn State football season is presented by PSECU.