Nov. 19, 2008

Wake Forest senior cornerback Alphonso Smith today was named as one of five finalists for the coveted Bronko Nagurski Trophy given annually to the nation's top defensive football player by the Charlotte Touchdown Club.

Smith is joined by TCU end Jerry Hughes, Southern California linebacker Rey Maualuga, Texas end Brian Orakpo and Florida linebacker Brandon Spikes.

Smith is a 5-9, 190-pound fifth-year senior from Pahokee, Fla.

The winner of the award will be announced on Dec. 7 and presented the Bronko Nagurski Trophy at a gala banquet at the Westin Hotel in Charlotte, N.C. The award is voted on by the Football Writers Association of America.

The award is named after Nagurski, who dominated college football at Minnesota as a bruising fullback and tackle from 1927-29. He could have been an All-America at any position, playing 60 minutes and was the best player on the field regardless of position.

Smith is a three-year starter for the Deacons and leads the team with five interceptions. His 19 career interceptions are a school record and just one shy of the ACC record of 20. Smith was the ACC Defensive Back of the Week following a 33-30 overtime win over Duke on Nov. 1. Smith had a blocked punt for a safety and two interceptions, including the game-winner in overtime. Smith currently leads the nation in passes defended with five interceptions and 13 pass breakups.

Wake Forest will host Boston College on Saturday, Nov. 22 at 3:30 at BB&T Field.