IOWA CITY – University of Iowa junior defensive end A.J. Epenesa has been named one of 20 quarterfinalists for the 2019 Lott IMPACT Trophy, which is presented to the nation’s best defensive IMPACT player.
Epenesa (6-foot-6, 280 pounds) leads a defense that ranks third in the country in scoring defense (8.8 ppg) and fifth in total defense (254.2). The Hawkeyes have allowed only 61 first downs, third fewest in the country.
The Glen Carbon, Illinois, native has two sacks, two pass break-ups, and five quarterback hurries this season.
Former Iowa linebacker Josey Jewell was the recipient of the Lott IMPACT Trophy in 2017, while defensive end Anthony Nelson was named to the Watch List a year ago. James Morris was a finalist for the award in 2013, and Desmond King was a semifinalist in 2016.
The winner will be announced at a black-tie gala Dec. 15 at the Pacific Club in Newport Beach. The Foundation will donate $25,000 to the general scholarship fund of the winners’ university and $5,000 to each of the three runner-up schools.
The Hawkeyes (4-1, 1-1) return to Kinnick Stadium Saturday night to play No. 9/10 Penn State (6:44 p.m., ABC).
