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UNC defensive lineman Xavier Lewis named semifinalist for defensive award

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Nov 11, 2026, 10:39 PM

Last updated Nov 11, 2026

UNC defensive lineman Xavier Lewis named semifinalist for defensive award

Summary

Xavier Lewis, a sophomore defensive lineman for UNC, has been named a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award. Lewis has demonstrated his skills with six sacks in the first three games of the season and a total of 10 tackles for loss. This marks a significant recognition for Lewis, as he is the first UNC player to achieve this honor since Julius Peppers in 2001. Lewis will be recognized alongside other semifinalists on December 11 at the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards. He continues to earn accolades this season, including two Midseason All-America honors and a place on the Lombardi Award Watch List.

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By the Numbers

•Xavier Lewis recorded six sacks in the first three games of the season.
•He is the first UNC semifinalist for the Bednarik Award since 2001.
•Lewis has earned two Midseason All-America honors this season.
•UNC faces Louisville on November 14, a crucial matchup in the ACC.
•Lewis's previous season was marked by only eight tackles.

Latest Updates

10:39 PMYahoo Sports — UNC starting lineman Xavier Lewis a semifinalist for defensive award

What they're saying

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Xavier Lewis is the leader on a strong UNC defensive line. The sophomore from Raleigh is now one of 18 semifinalist for a prestigious defensive award.
— Yahoo Sports

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