MINOT, N.D. – A pair of Minot State defenders have been honored for their play on the field this past season.

Minot State junior defensive back Isaiah Bigby has been named a semifinalists for the Cliff Harris Award which is presented to the top defensive player in all of NCAA Division II football. Bigby is one of 48 players nation-wide to be in the "Great 48" honored for this prestigious award.

Also earning special distinction is senior defensive back Knylen Miller-Levi who has been selected to participate in the Trillion Tropical Bowl the week of January 18-20 in Orlando, Florida. Tropical Bowl showcases the top college football seniors to NFL scouts and GM's who travel from around the country to the event. The weekend is focused on scouting, teaching, and football. 

During the fall of 2023, Bigby set the all-time Minot State record for career tackles with 237, and counting. He was named to the All-NSIC First Team, the third time he has been an all-conference performer, and he led the Beavers with 89 tackles on the season while adding two interceptions and two fumble recoveries.

The winner of the Cliff Harris Award will be announced on Dec. 28.

Miller-Levi wrapped up his Minot State career No. 3 all-time in interceptions with 11. He had 70 tackles with an interception this past fall as he was named to the All-NSIC First Team for the second time as a Beaver. Miller-Levi also was named to the All-NSIC Second Team and Second Team AFCA All-American in 2022.