It was announced today, Dec. 3rd that UCLA Bruins red-shirt Junior Carson Schwesinger was named to the first-team All-Big 10. The results were determined based on a vote by the league’s head coaches. He is also a finalist for the Butkus Award, one of the elite individual honors, given each year to one player in college football: the most impactful linebacker in the game.
Carson Schwesinger Makes A Splash For UCLA Bruins 1st Big 10 Season
Schwesinger’s journey from a walk-on to a dominant force in the Big Ten is nothing short of remarkable. In just three seasons, he has ascended to the top of the conference, leading the league in total tackles (136), solo tackles (90), and double-digit tackle performances (9). His 90 solo tackles are the most by any FBS player this season, and his 136 total tackles rank ninth-most in UCLA single-season history.
Schwesinger’s dominance extended beyond the Big Ten. His 90 solo tackles were the most by any Big Ten defender in the past 22 years. Additionally, his 136 total tackles rank ninth-most in UCLA single-season history, trailing only Eric Kendricks’ 2014 season, where Kendricks won the Butkus Award.
Since earning his first career start in Week 3 against LSU, Schwesinger has been a force to be reckoned with. He led the Bruins in tackles in 10 of 12 games, accumulating 4.0 sacks, 8.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions, a forced fumble, and a blocked punt.
Schwesinger’s impact was felt throughout the season, as he delivered several standout performances. He recorded 15+ tackles in three games, including a career-high 17 against Washington. Additionally, he had a six-game streak of double-digit tackle performances, also the longest by a Bruin since Kendricks in 2014. His two-interception game against Iowa earned him Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Schwesinger’s tear continued throughout the season. He recorded a career-high 17 tackles against Washington, the most by a Bruin since 2016. In a crucial game against Nebraska, he led UCLA with 13 tackles and forced a turnover on downs with a sack and pass breakup. Additionally, he recorded 4.5 tackles for loss against Minnesota, the most by a UCLA defender since 2016.
