North Alabama linebacker Tavarius Wilson (SR, 5-11, 235, Jackson, MS).
Wilson repeats as the Defensive winner, claiming his fourth career laurel and third of the season. The senior linebacker spearheaded UNA’s defense in a 30-27, home-overtime upset of No. 20 West Alabama, racking up a game-high 13 total tackles led by eight solo stops and one sack for six yards. The Jackson, MS native also made a huge impact in pass coverage, intercepting two passes deep inside Lions’ territory. His first turnover came at UNA’s two-yard line midway through the third quarter and his second came on UNA’s seven with just 7:54 left to play.