Spievey Named to Jim Thorpe Watch List

Aug. 7, 2009

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — The 2009 Jim Thorpe Award preseason “watch list” was announced today and University of Iowa junior cornerback Amari Spievey is on the list. The group includes 31 of the nation’s best defensive backs as leading candidates for this year’s trophy.

Spievey, a 6-0, 190-pounder from Middletown, CT, was a second team all-Big Ten choice last year. He is one of only two Big Ten players to make the Thorpe Watch List. Spievey totaled 68 tackles and had four interceptions last season. He also broke up six passes and forced a fumble.

The Thorpe Award is one of college football’s most sought after and prestigious awards. It is named after history’s greatest all-around athlete, a man who excelled as a running back, passer and kicker on offense, but also was an outstanding defensive back.

The Jim Thorpe Award “watch list” is determined by analysis of the pre-season All-American teams listed in at least six pre-season college football annual magazines. This procedure determines approximately 30-40 players on the pre-season watch list.

Formal presentation of the Jim Thorpe Award takes place at ceremonies in Oklahoma City on the first Tuesday in February following the national signing date for college football recruits.