Collin Klein named among 5 Johnny Unitas Award finalists

Collin Klein of the Kansas St. Wildcats is one of five finalists announced for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. The list was narrowed down from 29 candidates and announced on Wednesday.

Klein has thrown for 2,020 yards, 12 touchdowns and three interceptions this season. However, unlike the other four finalists, the Wildcats quarterback has been a duel threat, posting 748 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns in the ground game as well.

The other finalists are Matt Barkley of Southern Cal, E.J. Manuel of Florida State, A.J. McCarron of Alabama and Geno Smith of West Virginia.

Barkley has the most touchdowns of the five with 33, while Smith has thrown for the most yards with 3,041.

One player missing from the list who may seem deserving is Johnny Manziel of Texas A&M. Manziel is a freshman though, and the award only recognizes fourth-year juniors and seniors.

Last year, current Indianapolis Colts signal-caller, and former Stanford Cardinal, Andrew Luck won the award. The winner of this year's class will be announced on Dec. 7.