SPRINGDALE (KFSM) - Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield took home the 6th annual Burlsworth Trophy announced Monday.
The Burlsworth Trophy is awarded to the most outstanding college football player in America who began his career as a walk on. Mayfield beat out senior defensive end Carl Nassib from Penn State, and Luke Falk, a sophomore quarterback from Washington State. Nassib leads the nation in sacks with 16 total, including 15 solo. Falk leads the country, and Pac-12 with 4,266 yards passing.
Mayfield leads the Big 12 in passing touchdowns with 35, and has thrown only five interceptions all year long. The junior has thrown for 3,389 yards, and has an 178.9 quarterback rating. Mayfield has been instrumental in leading the Sooners to the College Football Playoffs, and quest for another national championship.
The Burlsworth Trophy is named in honor of Brandon Burlsworth. Without a single Division I scholarship offer, Burlsworth walked on to the Arkansas Razorback football team in 1994, and became a three year starter. He was selected in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts, but was killed in a car accident 11 days later. The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation was created in his memory, and supports the physical and spiritual needs of children, in particular those children who have limited opportunities.