PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A season that once seemed destined for disaster, has turned into something of an inspiration. Matt McGloin, quarterback for the Penn State Nittany Lions, has been selected as a finalist for the Burlsworth Trophy, Penn State Live announced. 

The award is given to the most outstanding college football player who began his career as a walk-on. It’s named after Brandon Burlsworth, a walk on at the University of Arkansas, who was eventually selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1999 NFL Draft. Burlsworth was killed eleven days later in a car crash.

The other two finalists for the award are Michigan’s Jordan Kovacs, and San Jose State’s David Quessenberry (fans can vote for the award at this location).

The winner will be announced at a ceremony on December 3rd.

McGloin led Penn State to an 8-4 record, throwing for  3271 yards, 24 touchdowns, and only five interceptions.