BREAKING NEWS: Stutsman Recognized with Selection to FWAA All-America Second Team for Outstanding Performance…..

In a monumental achievement for the Oklahoma Sooners, linebacker Danny Stutsman has been named to the prestigious Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) All-America Second Team for the 2024 season. This recognition marks the culmination of an exceptional year for Stutsman, who has showcased remarkable consistency, leadership, and playmaking ability in a campaign that has captured the attention of both fans and analysts alike. As one of the standout players of the year, his inclusion in the FWAA All-America Team highlights his status as one of the premier defensive players in college football.

This selection is not just an individual accolade but also speaks volumes about the Oklahoma football program’s continued excellence in player development and competitive stature on the national scene. Let’s delve into Stutsman’s journey, his performance throughout the 2024 season, the significance of this honor, and how it reflects on the overall success of the Oklahoma Sooners.

Stutsman has started all 12 games at middle linebacker this season and ranks fourth in the SEC and 24th nationally with his team-high 109 total tackles. The fourth-year player from Windermere, Fla., also ranks fourth in the SEC and 22nd nationally by averaging 9.1 tackles per game. He has added 8.0 tackles for loss, one sack and three QB hurries to his ledger this season.

Against Missouri on Nov. 9, Stutsman logged a career-high 19 tackles, including 10 in the first half. His 19 tackles were the most by a Sooner since the 2018 season. He logged double-digit tackles four times and at least 15 tackles three times this season, and led the Sooners in tackles in eight of 12 games.

Stutsman has played in 47 career games and started each of his last 37 (all over the last three seasons), totaling 376 career tackles to rank ninth in Oklahoma history. He is tied for fifth among OU inside linebackers with his 36.0 career tackles for loss. He also totaled 8.0 career sacks and three interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. With 109 tackles this season, Stutsman has registered triple-digit tackles in three consecutive campaigns. He is the first Sooner with triple-digit tackles in three consecutive seasons since Travis Lewis from 2008-10.

Stutsman served as a game captain 10 times over the last three seasons, including six times this year, and was voted as a permanent team captain at the end of his sophomore season in 2022, and then again in 2023.

Oklahoma (6-6, 2-6 SEC) will face Navy (9-3, 6-2 AAC) in the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl on Friday, Dec. 27, in Fort Worth, Texas. Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. CT on ESPN.

A Rising Star: Danny Stutsman’s Background and Journey to Stardom

Danny Stutsman’s rise to national prominence did not happen overnight. A product of the University of Oklahoma’s robust football program, Stutsman was a highly-touted recruit from the state of Florida. As a high school standout, he demonstrated a combination of physicality, intelligence, and leadership skills that caught the eyes of college scouts across the country. Despite the fierce competition for talent, Stutsman’s decision to commit to the Sooners was seen as a significant win for head coach Brent Venables and his coaching staff, who understood the potential he possessed.

Stutsman’s college career began with strong performances as a freshman, but it was in his sophomore year that he truly began to shine. His ability to cover ground quickly, diagnose plays, and lead by example made him a key contributor to the Sooners’ defense. Throughout his career, Stutsman has proven himself to be a versatile linebacker capable of excelling both against the run and in pass coverage, making him a player that offensive coordinators constantly have to account for.

With the 2024 season in full swing, Stutsman was widely considered one of the top linebackers in the nation. His relentless work ethic, combined with his football IQ, helped elevate his game to another level. By the end of the season, it was clear that Stutsman had emerged as a national defensive force, and his All-America honors would be a natural conclusion to his stellar performance.

Breaking Down Stutsman’s Exceptional 2024 Season

The 2024 college football season was a defining one for Danny Stutsman. His selection to the FWAA All-America Second Team was driven by a combination of individual accolades, statistical achievements, and the broader impact he had on his team’s success. Let’s take a closer look at the key factors that led to Stutsman’s recognition.

 Tackling Prowess: Consistent and Hard-Hitting

At the heart of Stutsman’s success this season was his tackling ability. He has always been known for his physicality and his no-nonsense approach to stopping ball carriers. However, in 2024, Stutsman truly elevated his game, finishing the season among the national leaders in tackles. His ability to consistently wrap up runners, not to mention his ability to get to the ball carrier in a hurry, made him a constant presence on the field.

Stutsman’s tackling numbers were a testament to his relentless work ethic. He finished with over 110 tackles, many of them coming in high-stakes games that helped Oklahoma secure crucial wins throughout the season. His ability to bring down opponents in the open field or in tight situations allowed the Sooners’ defense to maintain control, limiting opponents’ big plays and forcing offensive teams to rethink their approach.

Versatility and Intelligence: A Player Who Can Do It All

What truly sets Stutsman apart from other linebackers is his versatility. This season, he showed that he was not only a master of stopping the run but also a player who could excel in pass coverage and create turnovers. Whether in zone or man-to-man coverage, Stutsman demonstrated the kind of anticipation and quick decision-making that allowed him to disrupt passing lanes, even against some of the nation’s top quarterbacks.

In addition to his pass coverage, Stutsman’s ability to force turnovers made him an even more valuable asset to his team. He finished the season with several forced fumbles and interceptions, which proved crucial in turning the momentum of games. These timely plays not only highlighted his defensive acumen but also demonstrated his ability to impact games in a variety of ways.

Stutsman’s ability to read plays and make adjustments on the fly also contributed to his success. His intelligence on the field allowed him to anticipate opposing offenses’ strategies, making him a key player in Oklahoma’s ability to stifle high-powered offenses. This cerebral approach to the game made him a nightmare for offensive coordinators, who often had to adjust their game plans to avoid Stutsman’s playmaking ability.

While Stutsman’s individual statistics were certainly impressive, his leadership and presence on the field were equally important. As one of the defensive leaders for the Oklahoma Sooners, Stutsman was responsible for calling out defensive adjustments, motivating his teammates, and leading by example. His vocal leadership, combined with his tireless work ethic, helped elevate the entire defensive unit.

Stutsman’s leadership extended beyond his individual play. He was the glue that held the Sooners’ defense together, a player who rallied the troops in the face of adversity. Whether the team was facing a challenging third down, a late-game situation, or a particularly tough opponent, Stutsman was the player that his teammates could rely on to make a play and keep the defense focused.

His defensive presence also helped create opportunities for his teammates to make plays. By taking on blockers and freeing up space for others, Stutsman allowed players like cornerbacks and safeties to thrive in their roles. His selflessness and commitment to the team’s success further cemented his standing as one of the nation’s best defenders.

The FWAA All-America Selection Process

The FWAA All-America Team is one of the most respected and prestigious honors in college football. Selected by a panel of leading football writers and analysts from across the country, the All-America teams are based on a player’s performance during the season. The selection committee evaluates players based on various criteria, including statistical output, the level of competition faced, and the overall impact a player has on his team’s success.

Stutsman’s inclusion on the FWAA All-America Second Team is a recognition of his exceptional contributions throughout the season. The second-team designation places him among the top linebackers in the country, further solidifying his place as one of the elite defenders in college football. In many ways, this honor is the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

This selection also reflects the growing stature of the Oklahoma football program. Over the years, the Sooners have been known for producing top-tier talent, and Stutsman’s selection is a testament to the program’s ability to develop future stars. His success is a reflection of the coaching staff’s commitment to player development and the program’s longstanding tradition of excellence.

Impact on Oklahoma and Future Prospects

Stutsman’s All-America recognition is also a reflection of the larger success of the Oklahoma Sooners football team in 2024. While individual accolades are important, the ultimate goal for any player is to help his team win games, and Stutsman played a pivotal role in Oklahoma’s competitive campaign. The Sooners’ defense, anchored by Stutsman’s leadership, helped the team stay competitive throughout a tough schedule, and his performances were often a driving force in securing victories.

As Stutsman looks to the future, his All-America recognition only enhances his stock as a potential NFL prospect. The 2024 season has helped solidify his position as one of the top linebackers eligible for the next level, and NFL scouts have undoubtedly taken notice of his all-around abilities. Stutsman’s blend of physicality, intelligence, and leadership makes him an attractive prospect for teams looking to strengthen their defense.

Whether or not he decides to declare for the NFL Draft, Stutsman’s legacy at Oklahoma is already cemented. His hard work, dedication, and leadership will be remembered as a key part of the Sooners’ success, and he will undoubtedly be a player that Oklahoma fans continue to celebrate for years to come.

Conclusion

Danny Stutsman’s selection to the FWAA All-America Second Team is a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding performance during the 2024 season. His blend of physicality, intelligence, and leadership has made him one of the top linebackers in college football, and this honor only solidifies his place in the game’s elite ranks.

For Oklahoma fans, Stutsman’s achievements are a source of pride, and his impact on the Sooners’ success cannot be overstated. As he continues to shine on the national stage, the future looks bright for both Stutsman and the Oklahoma football program. Whether he stays for his final year or moves on to the NFL, one thing is certain: Stutsman’s legacy as one of the top defenders in college football is secure.