OKLAHOMA CITY-Utah sophomore cornerback Clark Phillips III has been named as a finalist for the 2022 Paycor Jim Thorpe Award Tuesday. This is annually awarded to the best defensive back in college football.

Phillips is one of three finalists for this prestigious award. The others include Texas Christian senior cornerback Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson and Illinois junior cornerback Devon Witherspoon.

Phillips has six interceptions (tied for the national lead) two pick-sixes (2nd nationally) and five pass breakups.

Phillips and his Utah teammates play for a Pac-12 championship Friday against USC at Allegiant Stadium of Las Vegas.