Davey O’Brien Semifinalists Announced — No Time To Ponder

When the 15 semifinalists for the Davey O’Brien Award were announced on Monday, one noteworthy candidate was left off of the list. Apparently the “elite group of journalists, broadcasters, commentators and former winners” didn’t believe Florida State QB, Christian Ponder, was worth a look. Is it safe to say that a large degree of subjectivity goes into the selection process?

The O’Brien honors the nation’s best college quarterback of the year and inspires student-athletes to triumph both on and off the field. By recognizing and honoring athletes who excel in both sports and academics while exhibiting strong character and leadership, The O’Brien aims to help instill a lifelong moral fiber in each candidate.

Christian Ponder – Florida State Seminoles | GETTY—–

So what if Florida State’s record is 3-4.

Ponder has racked up impressive stats. The junior signal caller from Colleyville, Texas has passed for 2,176 yards (6th) and completed 70 percent of his passes (4th). And while he struggled with turnovers last season, he has only thrown 1 INT this season (vs. 13 in 2008). His direction has resulted in 12 scores through the air, and 2 on the ground. His 155.8 passer rating ranks tenth in the nation.

Fans can still help determine which of the semifinalists advance as finalists by voting at voteobrien.org. Fan votes account for 5% of the process in each round. So far, Jake Locker leads the fan voting with 24% of the vote. By the way, Washington is 3-5 this season.

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