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UNC Football Player Among Three Finalists for Major Award

Omarion Hampton enjoyed one of the most productive regular seasons by any running back in UNC football history.

Matt Giles

UNC football running back Omarion Hampton (Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports)
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On Tuesday, sensational UNC football sophomore running back Omarion Hampton became a finalist for the 2023 Doak Walker Award, given to the nation's top running back. The other two finalists are Oklahoma State's Ollie Gordon II and Missouri's Cody Schrader.

Hampton, a former four-star recruit out of Clayton, N.C., took home ACC Running Back of the Week honors four times this season on his way to amassing 1,442 rushing yards (120.7 per game) on 234 carries. He tallied 15 touchdowns on the ground.

His rushing yards mark the third most in a season by any Tar Heel in history.

All of the above numbers are best in the ACC. Meanwhile, the 20-year-old Hampton ranks No. 4 in the nation in rushing yards and No. 8 in touchdowns.

The winner of the award will be announced on Dec. 8 as part of the The Home Depot College Football Awards show.

Omarion Hampton and the unranked Tar Heels (8-4, 4-4 ACC), who lost four of their last six games after beginning the year 6-0 and peaking at No. 10 in the AP Top 25, await their bowl destination. They'll find that out on Sunday.

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Matt Giles
MATT GILES

Matt Giles is the editor and publisher of North Carolina Tar Heels on SI, Duke Blue Devils on SI, and NC State Wolfpack on SI, making him a key source for comprehensive coverage of these storied college basketball programs. Since joining UNC on SI in 2023, Matt has been dedicated to providing in-depth analysis, breaking news, and exclusive content on all three teams. He covers everything from game previews and recaps to player profiles and recruiting updates. Matt's expert knowledge of these teams has made his work a go-to resource for fans and followers of Duke, NC State, and UNC. As publisher, he shapes the editorial direction, ensuring that the most relevant and timely information reaches his audience.

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