JT Tuimoloau is up for a national award that pays tribute to his Polynesian ancestry.
The Ohio State defensive end is one of eight finalists for this year’s Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award, which is presented annually to the most outstanding college football player of Polynesian ancestry that epitomizes great ability and integrity.
Tuimoloau is joined as a finalist by San Jose State defensive lineman Viliami Fehoko, Baylor defensive lineman Siaki Ika, UCLA defensive lineman Laiatu Latu, Utah offensive lineman Sataoa Laumea, Oregon linebacker Noah Sewell, Maryland quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa and USC defensive lineman Tuli Tuipuloto.
Tuimoloau makes the list of finalists in a strong sophomore season for the Buckeyes in which he has recorded 28 total tackles with 11 tackles for loss and four sacks. His regular season was highlighted by a spectacular performance against Penn State in which he recorded two interceptions (returning one for a touchdown), forced a fumble and tipped another pass that was intercepted by his Ohio State teammate Zach Harrison, all the while recording six total tackles, three tackles for loss and two sacks.
If Tuimoloau wins the award, he would become the second straight Ohio State defensive lineman to earn the award, as former Buckeye defensive tackle Haskell Garrett was the Polynesian Player of the Year last year.
