Texas Longhorns defensive lineman T’Vondre Sweat is cementing himself as one of the top defensive tackles in America.

Sweat was announced as a finalist on Tuesday for the Outland Trophy, which is awarded to the best interior lineman in the country.

Having played in all 12 games with seven starts, Sweat has already set career highs with 40 tackles, 16 solo tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and 4 pass breakups this season. Additionally, he stopped a crucial kick against Iowa State on an extra point that was recovered for two, significantly altering the game’s momentum.

According to Texas coach Steve Sarkisian, “Sweat has such athleticism for a big man and can impact the game in a variety of ways.” The passer can be rushed by him. He’s capable of making big plays on many of these fourth- and third-down stops in addition to guarding the run. When he can’t get into the backfield, he gets his hands on the ball. He has a great deal of batted and tipped balls.

With only 90.3 rushing yards allowed per game, Texas’ defense is currently ranked No. 1 in the Big 12 Conference and No. 5 in the entire country. In addition, the Longhorns are conceding the fifth-lowest amount of yards per carry in the country and have only allowed seven rushing touchdowns. A Sweat has played a significant role in that.

Sweat has also contributed to the Texas defense being the best in the country in both red zone defense (68.8 percent) and third-down defense (26.3 percent).

In addition, the Horns are ranked 12th in scoring defense (17.2 ppg), 27th in first down defense (210), and fourth in rushing defense (85.0 ypg).

Additionally, Sweat has been designated as a finalist for the Walter Camp Player of the Year Award.