Nate Solder finalist for academic Heisman

Colorado offensive lineman Nate Solder was one of 16 college football players across the nation at all levels of NCAA competition to be named finalists for the William V. Campbell Trophy, also known as the academic Heisman, the National Football Foundation announced today.

Nate Solder is a senior left tackle at CU who had started a team-leading 31 consecutive games. He already graduated with a degree in Biology.

Solder will receive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship for earning one of the 16 finalist spots. The NFF will announce the winner of the award later this year and that player will receive a $25,000 postgraduate scholarship. Solder would be the second Buff to win. Former offensive lineman Jim Hansen earned the honor in 1992.

Solder is a three-time, first-team academic All-Big 12 Conference selection and was also named All-Big 12 for his effort on the field by the league's coaches last season.

Solder leads the Buffs with 79 knockdown blocks this season, more than twice as many as any other CU offensive lineman.

Solder contributes his time and energy to multiple charitable organizations and has traveled abroad during his career in Boulder to help rebuild homes in Italy and work with children in Guatemala.