Antonio Morrison named SEC Defensive Player of the Week
Florida linebacker Antonio Morrison was awarded the title of SEC Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, for his strong efforts in the 27-3 blowout victory over rival Georgia.
SEC Week 9 Defensive Player of the Week: ANTONIO MORRISON #SECHonors pic.twitter.com/RVApekz5Gk
— SEC Sports (@SEC) November 2, 2015
In addition to garnering this denotation, Morrison was named as one of 10 semifinalists for the Butkus Award -- given to the nation's top linebacker.
#Gators Jim McElwain on LBs Jarrad Davis and Antonio Morrison: "Those two guys are the heart and soul of this program."
— Jesse Re Simonton (@JesseReSimonton) November 2, 2015
Morrison leads the Gators with 60 tackles on the season, and also has accrued 7.0 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. His availability this year is somewhat surprising. After suffering a grueling knee injury last year, it wasn't a given Morrison would be able to contribute at an average level, let alone play.
However, he's demonstrated tremendous heart, determination, and skill with his ability in 2015. There's no question he's the true heartbeat of this program in its current state, from both a performance and leadership standpoint.