Colorado linebacker Gideon Lampron is one of 18 semifinalists for the Chuck Bednarik Award, recognizing college football’s top defensive player. The honor follows two straight Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week awards and a breakout stretch in which Lampron has become a key force for the Buffaloes.

By the Numbers
  • 99 tackles, 16 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks through 9 games.
  • 18 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 2 sacks against Arizona State.
  • 72 tackles over his last 5 games.
Yes, But

Lampron’s individual recognition comes as Colorado sits at 3-6 overall and 1-5 in the Big 12. His recent surge began after fellow linebacker Tyler Martinez left the lineup; Lampron has credited Martinez’s leadership with motivating him to step up.

State of Play
  • Lampron is 1 tackle for loss from tying Colorado’s single-season record for inside linebackers, with 3 regular-season games remaining.
  • He is 1 of 2 Big 12 players among the 18 semifinalists.
  • Colorado hosts Houston Friday at Folsom Field.
What’s Next

Three finalists will be announced Nov. 24, with the winner named Dec. 10. Lampron and Colorado next face Houston, with kickoff set for 8:15 p.m. MT on ESPN.

Bottom Line

Lampron’s award candidacy is backed by standout production and a late-season surge—but Colorado’s remaining games will put his impact and the team’s response to the test.