Ray Ray Armstrong is on the Chuck Bednarik Award Watch List, released today.
A former five-star recruit from Seminole High in Sanford, Fla., Armstrong was recruited nationally. He chose the Hurricanes over Florida, LSU, and many other premier programs.
At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, Armstrong was one of three Hurricane freshmen to log significant minutes on Miami's defense in 2009. He played in ten games and finished the season with 21 tackles.
Armstrong really started living up to expectations during his sophomore season in 2010. He started most of the season and was one of the most productive players on Miami's defense. He finished the season with 74 tackles, 4.5 for loss, three interceptions, and three pass breakups.
Following his sophomore season, Armstrong was being counted on as a leader on Miami's defense in Al Golden's first season. Unfortunately, he was suspended due to his involvement with Nevin Shapiro and never regained his starting spot. He finished a sub-par junior season with 34 tackles and one interception.
Heading into his senior season, Armstrong was a star of spring football. He looks like a brand new player and could be in line for a tremendous season for the Hurricanes.
The Chuck Bednarik Award is given to the top defensive player in college football every year. The last Hurricane to win the award is Dan Morgan back in 2000.