WASHINGTON (November 20, 2023) – Stats Perform uncovered its 30 finalists for the 2023 Buck Buchanan Award where Howard University senior defensive back Kenny Gallop, Jr. (Portsmouth, Va.) is among the nominees. The announcement came Monday.
 
During the 2023 campaign, Gallop racked up 58 total tackles (39 solos), including four tackles for loss, with three pass breakups, two forced fumbles and a pair of INTs in 10 games.
 
In the homecoming win over Norfolk State (Oct. 21), Gallop recorded 11 total tackles (six solos) and the game-clinching interception. For his efforts, he was named FedEx Ground FCS National Defensive Player of the Week.
 
All 13 FCS leagues, comprised from 15 conferences overall, are represented by a Buck Buchanan Award finalist, which is given to the national defensive player of the year in Division I FCS college football.
 
The Buchanan Award, first presented in 1995 and in its 29^th season, is named for legendary defensive lineman Junious "Buck" Buchanan, who starred at Grambling State as part of his Hall of Fame career. Past recipients include Dexter Coakley, Rashean Mathis, Jared Allen and Arthur Moats.

The winner, to be selected by a national voting panel, will be announced at the FCS National Awards Banquet Saturday, Jan. 6, in Frisco, Texas – the eve of the FCS championship game.
 
On Dec. 16, Howard plays its final game of the 2023 campaign at the Cricket Celebration Bowl in Atlanta where they will face the Southwestern Athletic Conference Champion for the HBCU National Title.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com or the STATS FCS website at www.fcs.football.