For the second straight year, Anthony Hill Jr. has a chance to add to his trophy case. The Longhorns star has been named a semifinalist for the Butkus Award, which is given annually to the best linebacker in the nation. While the Longhorns’ defense has struggled with consistency at times this season, Hill has been a bright spot on game day.
In nine games this season, the Texas native has recorded a team-high 63 total tackles and forced three fumbles. He also ranks in the top ten in both categories in the SEC, which is no easy feat. Although the Longhorns have been without one of their best players, Michael Taaffe, for the last few weeks, Hill has stepped up, which was on display against Vanderbilt.
Against one of the best teams in the nation, Hill added four tackles to his resume, including three for a loss. In a game that came down to the wire, Hill also recorded a sack and helped Texas come up with key stops down the stretch. Due to his efforts, Ryan High Grad was named the Chuck Bednarik Player of the Week.
For Many in Austin, it comes as no surprise that Hill is up for the Butkus Award for the second straight year. During his career as a Longhorn, Hill has recorded 243 total tackles and 17 sacks. He has also been a turnover machine at times, forcing eight fumbles. Due to his stellar play, Hill has become an irreplaceable piece of the defense.
While Hill’s focus is on winning a national title, he will also be keeping an eye on how voting for the Butkus Award plays out. He has made a very good case so far as he tries to become the first Longhorns player to win the award since Derrick Johnson in 2004. If he can build on his impressive start to the season, that could become a reality.
Next week, Hill will get to show why he should be the winner when Texas takes on Georgia. In another SEC clash, it will be a chance for him to shine while moving the Longhorns closer to a playoff berth.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Texas Football LB Anthony Hill Jr. named semifinalist for the Butkus Award
Reporting by Jamie Gatlin, Longhorns Wire / Longhorns Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
