Olu Fashanu was named a William V. Campbell Trophy semifinalist Wednesday after his nomination for the award earlier this month.

The “Academic Heisman” is awarded to the most academically high-performing college football player in the country.

In order to be eligible for the trophy, a player must be in his final year of eligibility, have a GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 grading scale, show strong character and leadership, and must be a significant contributor on the football field.

Programs are restricted to one nominee per year, which speaks volumes for Fashanu and his success at protecting Drew Allar’s blindside and his hard work in the classroom. Fashanu has been an anchor at the left tackle position this season, having not allowed a single sack or quarterback hit through Penn State’s first four games.

After opting to return to Penn State for his fourth year, Fashanu will likely hear his name called very early in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.

About the Author

Cadyn Gill

Cadyn is a fourth-year broadcast journalism major at Penn State. Hailing from the great state of Texas, he is a die hard Dallas sports fan. You'll often see him voicing his opinions on music and sports on X/Twitter @cgill214. Contact him at [email protected].

The Story Behind Penn State Football Running Back Cam Wallace

Wallace broke both of his ankles against Kent State in 2024.

Previewing The Enemy: Washington Huskies

Penn State is set to make its lone West Coast trip of the season.

Staff Predictions: Penn State vs. Washington

Woof.