Sammy Omosigho, senior linebacker and captain of the University of California, Los Angeles football team, was named one of 15 semifinalists for the 2026 Butkus Award on October 29, 2026. The award is presented annually to the nation’s top college linebacker.
In his first year as a regular starter, Omosigho leads a UCLA defense that ranks in the top 10 nationally in takeaways, fumble recoveries, pass efficiency defense, rushing defense, and total defense. The UCLA Bruins hold a 7-0 overall record and a 5-0 record in Big Ten conference play.
Omosigho leads the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) with five forced fumbles. Among Big Ten players, he ranks second in solo tackles per game, fourth in tackles for loss, fifth in sacks, and sixth in total tackles per game. He has been recognized as Chuck Bednarik Award Player of the Week and Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week during the 2026 season. Additionally, he is a Lott IMPACT Trophy quarterfinalist and was named an Associated Press Midseason First-Team All-American.
The UCLA Bruins will continue their undefeated season with a game against Nevada at Rose Bowl Stadium on October 31, 2026, at 1:15 p.m. PT.
CSB Take
Sammy Omosigho’s selection as a semifinalist for the 2026 Butkus Award highlights his pivotal role and impressive performance as a defensive leader for the University of California, Los Angeles. His individual honors and statistics contribute significantly to the Bruins’ top-ranked defense and undefeated record in one of college football’s premier conferences. This recognition is both a testament to Omosigho’s talent and a positive indicator for UCLA football’s continued success this season.
Source: Original report
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