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Texas Tech's Jacob Rodriguez Wins Bronko Nagurski Award

12/9/2025

Summary

Story summary

Jacob Rodriguez of Texas Tech won the Bronko Nagurski Award as the nation’s top defensive player at a banquet in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Rodriguez recorded 114 tackles, four interceptions, and seven forced fumbles, helping Texas Tech's defense rank fifth nationally.
Texas Tech finished 12-1, won the Big 12 championship, and earned a spot in the Orange Bowl.
Patrick Mahomes, a former Texas Tech player, praised Rodriguez and encouraged Heisman consideration.

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Story summary

Jacob Rodriguez of Texas Tech won the Bronko Nagurski Award as the nation’s top defensive player at a banquet in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Rodriguez recorded 114 tackles, four interceptions, and seven forced fumbles, helping Texas Tech's defense rank fifth nationally.
Texas Tech finished 12-1, won the Big 12 championship, and earned a spot in the Orange Bowl.
Patrick Mahomes, a former Texas Tech player, praised Rodriguez and encouraged Heisman consideration.