Boyd and Branch Added to Watch Lists for Major Awards

Oct. 10, 2011

CLEMSON, SC – Clemson quarterback Tajh Boyd and defensive end Andre Branch have been added to Watch Lists for major college football awards. The announcement was made by the Maxwell Club of Southampton, PA.

Boyd was one of nine players added as candidates for the Maxwell Award, which is given to the National Player of the Year. Branch was named to the Watch List for the Bednarik Award, which is presented each year to the National Defensive Player of the Year. Clemson defensive end Da’Quan Bowers was a finalist for the Bednarik Award last year.

Boyd has quarterbacked Clemson to a 6-0 record so far. He ranks 16th in the nation in passing efficiency and is 14th in total offense. He has 15 touchdown passes and just two interceptions and has thrown for at least 200 yards in every game. He leads the ACC in total offense and passing yards per game.

Branch is Clemson’s top tackler with 40 stops to match the number on his back. He is trying to become the first Clemson defensive lineman to lead Clemson in tackles for a season since William Perry in 1984. Branch had four sacks and six tackles for loss in Clemson’s 20-point win at Virginia Tech to tie school records in both categories.

Clemson is ranked eighth in both polls this week and will travel to Maryland to face the Terps this Saturday evening at 7 PM.