Duquesne freshman running back Billy Lucas (Erie, Pa. / Cathedral Prep) was one of 16 finalists announced on Monday for the Stats Perform FCS Jerry Rice Award, which is presented to the national freshman player of the year in college football's Division I subdivision.
Lucas is the first Duquesne player to be named a finalist for the Jerry Rice Award since running back A.J. Hines won the award following the 2016 season.
Lucas, who recently earned Northeast Conference (NEC) Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, recorded 66 carries for 296 yards and two touchdowns on the season, posting two consecutive 100-yard rushing games to close out the year. The Erie, Pa. native toted the ball 26 times for 110 yards and a touchdown in the Dukes' win at Bryant in the regular season finale before tallying 22 carries for 110 yards and a score in the NEC Championship game against Sacred Heart.