The Bodda Getta

Auburn linebacker Ashton Richardson is one of three finalists for the Bobby Bowen Award, presented annually by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes to the player at an FBS school who best epitomizes a student-athlete.

The other two finalists are Southern California quarterback Matt Barkley and Ohio State defensive end John Simon.

The award is named for former Florida State University football coach Bobby Bowden, and conceived by former Bowden assistant coach Vince Gibson, who died in 2012 from Lou Gehrig's disease, and Vernon Brinson, who played for Bowden at South Georgia College in the 1950s.

In order to be nominated for award, a player must conduct himself as a faith role model in the classroom, on the field, on the campus and in the community. A nominuee must have at least a 3.0 grade point average and have the backing of his school's athletics director and head football coach.

Richardson is a senior and a three year letter winner at Auburn. Richardson is a Rhodes Scholar finalist and a three-time member of the All-SEC honor roll. He owns a 3.95 GPA in equine studies.