:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/43376178/20141101_tcb_al8_202.JPG.0.jpg)
Through Pitt's ups and downs this year, one steady constant has been the production of James Conner. The Pitt running back hasn't always posted 250+ yard games as he did this past weekend, and to be fair, he's had his share of fumbles. But through it all, Conner leads the nation in rushing and on Monday, was named one of 20 semifinalists for the prestigious Maxwell Award, given to the top player in college football.
Conner and Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston are the only two sophomores on the list. Miami running back Duke Johnson is the only other ACC player to make the cut and here's the entire list.
Next up for Conner will be a considerable challenge - making the finalist cut. Only three players will be named finalists on November 24th with a winner being named on December 11th.
Conner will have his hands full since his team is fighting just to make it to a bowl game. Even if he leads the nation in rushing, he could still find himself on the outside looking in when it comes to being selected as a finalist.
Be sure to join Cardiac Hill's Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @PittPantherBlog for our regular updates on Pitt athletics. Follow the author and founder/editor @AnsonWhaley.
