Auburn Football: Team Awards after First Third of Season

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Sep 3, 2016; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers defensive lineman Marlon Davidson (3) looks on from the bench during the first half against the Clemson Tigers at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports /

Freshman of the Year – Marlon Davidson

There were some good candidates for Freshman of the Year, but I think the obvious choice is defensive end Marlon Davidson.

I love watching this kid play every time he’s on the field, and it’s hard to imagine he’s a true freshman with his 6-foot-3, 273 pound frame.

He’s quick enough to get around the edge to hurry the quarterback, he’s strong enough to bull rush an offensive tackle, and he’s fast enough to catch running backs from behind on the outside.

This freshman is capable of playing all three downs, and has proven why he won the starting job to begin the season.

Through four games he has 10 tackles, 2 tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks and 1 quarterback hurry.

To me the stats don’t even describe how good Marlon Davidson has been this season. I knew he’d have a major impact, but he’s been vital to the success of the defensive line.

And I think he’s just getting warmed up. As he gets more games under his belt he’ll become more comfortable with the speed of the college game.

I think Marlon Davidson has had an incredible start to the season, but I think he has an even better final two-thirds of the season.

Honorable Mention:

Kyle Davis: 5 catches, 120 yards, 24 yard average

Darius Slayton: 4 catches, 91 yards, 22.8 yard average

Javaris Davis: 8 tackles, 2 pass break-ups

Next: Breakout Player

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