Temple's Matakevich named top defensive player with Bednarik Award

Temple linebacker Tyler Matakevich was honored with the Chuck Bednarik Award on Thursday night, given to the best defensive player in college football.

It's the second piece of hardware Matakevich received this week, after picking up the Bronko Nagurski Award on Monday. He topped Penn State defensive end Carl Nassib, and Alabama linebacker Reggie Ragland, who were the other finalists for the Bednarik.

Matakevich was the only player in the FBS to lead his team in tackles in every game this season, finishing with 126 total tackles. He added five interceptions, five pass breakups, and 4.5 sacks to his impressive year. The senior has 481 career tackles, recording at least 100 in each season.