Two Irish Defenders named to Bednarik Watch List

Two breakout performers from Notre Dame’s defense last year are among the 90 players included on the Bednarik Watch List.

In what was viewed as breakout seasons for two Notre Dame defenders last year, safety Kyle Hamilton and linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, the hype continues over into the 2020 season as both of them have been named on the Chuck Bednarik Award preseason watch list.

The watch list consists of 90 of the best collegiate defenders in the nation, so there will surely be still competition for both Hamilton and Owusu-Koramoah if they want to bring award back to South Bend. The award began in 1995, with linebacker Manti Te’o as the only Notre Dame defender to win the award in 2012.

As a freshman, Hamilton put up impressive numbers in limited playing time, recording 41 tackles, grabbing 4 interceptions while taking one back for a touchdown with 6 passes defended. The Atlanta native sure showed some impressive ability for such a young player, and the expectations for bigger number this year is valid. Hamilton is expected to start in the defensive backfield.

Owusu-Koramoah was a bit of a different story than Hamilton, as he had to work his way into playing time as a junior. The wait was well worth it as the linebacker exploded on the scene with 80 tackles, 5.5 sacks along with 2 forced fumbles and two recoveries. If the rising senior continues his progression, a huge season is in line for JOK.

Both of them are seen as impact players on Clark Lea’s defense and keys to the upcoming 2020 season. With the offense having to replace all the starters from the skill positions, the defense will need to step up early to give that side of the ball a cushion while they figure things out.