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Alabama LBs Ryan Anderson, Reuben Foster named semifinalists for Butkus Award

Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

TUSCALOOSA—A pair of senior linebackers joined punter JK Scott in earning a spot as semifinalists for a national award. On Monday, both Ryan Anderson and Reuben Foster were two of 12 candidates named to the 32nd Dick Butkus Award, which is presented annually to college football’s top linebacker.

Anderson is among Alabama’s defensive leaders in tackles (29), sacks (4.5) and quarterback hurries (six), while his 11.5 tackles for loss leads the team and is second in the Southeastern Conference. He’s totaled three forced fumbles and a pass breakup, en route to aiding a unit that’s averaged an FBS-leading four sacks a game.

Foster, the signal caller on defense, leads the group in tackles with 53.

He stands at 4.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, two pass breakups and four quarterback hurries. The combination of Anderson and Foster has propelled the Tide in limiting opponents to 14.9 points, 70.1 rushing yards, 204.4 passing yards and 275 total yards per game, all of which ranks toward the top nationally. Finalists for the Dick Butkus Award will be announced on Nov. 21, and a winner will be announced during the week of Dec. 6.

Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama MagazineYou can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.

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Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 10+ years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

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