Malik Willis’ on-the-field play and off-the-field character have been rewarded with the 2021 Bobby Bowden Trophy.
The Bobby Bowden Trophy recognizes the college football player who epitomizes a student-athlete of faith. The award winner must conduct himself as an exemplary model in the classroom, on the field, on campus and in the community.
The award, given out since 2003, is named after legendary Florida State Coach Bobby Bowden. A devout Christian, Bowden built Florida State into an elite program, winning two national championships.
This was the first time the award had been given out since Bowden’s death on Aug. 8, 2021 after a battle with cancer.
Along with Willis, the other two finalists for the award were Georgia kicker/punter Jake Camarda and Michigan defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. Hutchinson is projected as a top-three pick in most mock drafts.
Willis joins the elite company of players who have won the award – Trevor Lawrence was the 2020 award winner and Tua Tagovailoa won in 2019. Both quarterbacks are currently starters in the NFL.
After he was announced as the winner, Willis was thankful for the recognition.
“More than blessed to receive this honor,” Willis tweeted after winning the award.
The Bobby Bowden Trophy was not the only award Willis was in contention for this season. Willis finished as a semifinalist for the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award and placed in the top 10 for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
Willis racked up 2,857 yards in the air along with 878 on the ground. He led Liberty to a 8-5 season, culminating with a 56-20 win in the LendingTree bowl.
Currently, Willis is preparing for the Senior Bowl, which is scheduled for Feb. 5, 2022. After this, he will likely continue preparing for Liberty’s pro day and the NFL combine.
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