UConn sophomore running back Lyle McCombs has been named a candidate for Doak Walker Award. The award is presented annually to the nation's top college running back.

McCombs was named a freshman All-American by the Football Writer's Association of America and was a Second Team All-Big East selection. He ranked 29th in the nation and second in the conference as well as second among freshmen with 95.92 rushing yards per game. He averaged 4.2 yards per carry and ran for seven touchdowns.

McCombs has also been named to the Maxwell Award watch list, which is given annually to the nation's top collegiate player.

The Doak Walker Award winner will be announced on Dec. 6. It is the only major collegiate award that requires all candidates to be in good academic standing and on schedule to graduate within one year of other students of the same classification.

- Day staff reports