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Two Up for Honors

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Times Staff Writer

UCLA may not rank among the top 25 teams in the nation, but when it comes to individual awards the Bruins are well represented. Junior tight end Marcedes Lewis and senior punter Chris Kluwe were named finalists for national honors on Tuesday.

Lewis is one of three finalists for the John Mackey Award, given to college football’s top tight end. Lewis, who has 26 receptions for 332 yards and six touchdowns, is joined by Virginia’s Heath Miller and Stanford’s Alex Smith.

“One thing that really has helped me out this year has been the work that I’ve put in to improve my blocking,” Lewis said. “That’s one thing that I really concentrated on.”

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Kluwe is a finalist for the Ray Guy Award, which recognizes the nation’s top punter. Kluwe is averaging 43.25 yards, and has had only 33% of his punts returned. Michigan State’s Brandon Fields and Baylor’s Daniel Sepulveda are the other two finalists.

“Awards are nice to get but it’s more about the team,” Kluwe said. “I’d be a lot happier if we go out and beat SC.”

Over the years, UCLA has won its share of individual awards, including Heisman Trophy winner Gary Beban and Outland Trophy winners Jonathan Ogden and Kris Farris. But the Bruins have not won any since Farris took home the award for best lineman in 1999.

Coach Karl Dorrell said that Kluwe and Lewis have earned their recognition this year.

“Those guys, to the credit of the work they put in during the off-season, have had good years. We’re excited for them,” Dorrell said.

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