Miami's Rueben Bain named finalist to prestigious award as Hurricanes push for CFP

Miami defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. was named one of 20 semifinalists for the Walter Camp Player of the Year Award, the fourth-oldest individual honor in college football. The Walter Camp Football Foundation released its 2025 semifinalist list last Wednesday, formally recognizing Bain among a national group that includes 11 quarterbacks, six defensive players, two running backs and one wide receiver.

Bain has anchored Miami's front through ten games, totaling 31 tackles (15 solo), 6.0 tackles for loss and 3.0 sacks, with one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, one interception and one pass breakup. His production has been central to a defense that has helped the Hurricanes remain in the College Football Playoff discussion.

The Walter Camp award is voted on by 136 FBS head coaches and sports information directors. Three finalists will be announced later this month, and the 59th recipient will be revealed on the ESPN College Football Awards show on Dec. 12. The Foundation also opened a public fan-vote portal this week as part of its All-America selection process.

Bain's recognition added to a busy awards week. One day earlier, he was named a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award, presented by the Maxwell Football Club to the nation's top defensive player.

Per the Walter Camp Foundation, he is one of three ACC players on the list, joined by SMU defensive standout Ahmaad Moses and Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King.

Bain's continued production this fall now has him positioned for multiple postseason honors as Miami enters its final stretch.

Miami closes its regular-season home slate on the road against Virginia Tech and Pitt. The Hurricanes have only been outside the state of Florida once this year and will have to show that they can perform in hostile environments. Bain will be a big part in leading that charge.