Spence Selected as Semifinalist for Paycom Jim Thorpe Award

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. – James Madison cornerback Terrence Spence was honored with the nation's top defensive backs, as he was named one of 15 semifinalists for the 2024 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, as announced by the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and Jim Thorpe Association.

Spence is JMU's first semifinalist for the Thorpe Award in school history and the only Sun Belt Conference defensive back to make the list.

The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award is awarded to the best defensive back in college football based on performance on the field, athletic ability and character. The award was established in 1986 and is named after history's greatest all-around athlete, Jim Thorpe.

In his first season with the program after a solid career at Holy Cross (2020-23), Spence has emerged as one of the top defenders, as he leads the Sun Belt and ranks second nationally with five interceptions, which is one shy of Cal's Nohl Williams (6) for the FBS lead. Spence also ranks third in the Sun Belt with eight total passes defended (5 INT, 3 PBU).

Through eight games, Spence has tallied 24 total tackles with five interceptions (one pick-six), three pass breakups, one forced fumble and a blocked punt. In JMU's win at North Carolina on Sept. 21, Spence had a pair of interceptions in the second quarter, returning the latter 33 yards for a touchdown. Earlier in the game, Spence blocked a UNC punt, which was picked up and returned by Jayden Mines for a touchdown. The Ringwood, N.J., native has three interception returns of at least 30 yards this season.

Players may be added to the semifinalist list between now and the end of the regular season, with three finalists being selected on Tuesday, Nov. 26. The winner of the 2024 Paycom Jim Thorpe Award will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 12 during The Home Depot College Football Awards.

Paycom Jim Thorpe Award 2024 Semifinalists
Jahdae Barron, Texas, Sr.
Jalen Catalon, UNLV, Sr.
Tacario Davis, Arizona, Jr.
Caleb Downs, Ohio State, So.
Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina, Jr.
Travis Hunter, Colorado, Jr.
Will Johnson, Michigan, Jr.
Rayuan Lane III, Navy, Sr.
Jermod McCoy, Tennessee, So.
Jabbar Muhammad, Oregon, Sr.
Xavier Scott, Illinois, Jr.
Terrence Spence, James Madison, Sr.
Malaki Starks, Georgia, Jr.
Xavier Watts, Notre Dame, Gr. Sr.
Nohl Williams, California, Sr.

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