Penn State standout defensive end Tamba Hali has been selected one of five finalists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, awarded annually to the nation's top defensive player by the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) and the Charlotte Touchdown Club

The winner, the 13th to be so honored by the FWAA, will be announced on Dec. 5 and presented the Bronko Nagurski Trophy at a gala banquet at the Westin Hotel in Charlotte, N.C.

A senior All-America candidate, Hali has been instrumental in No. 5 Penn State's 9-1 overall record and Big Ten-leading 6-1 mark. He is a primary reason why the Nittany Lion defense is ranked in the top 15 nationally in five categories, allowing less than 100 yards rushing and 16 points per game. Penn State has held seven opponents to 15 points or less this season.

Joining Hali for the honor of the best defensive football player in the nation are Louisville senior end Elvis Dumervil, Oregon junior tackle Haloti Ngata, Alabama senior linebacker DeMeco Ryans and Virginia Tech senior cornerback Jimmy Williams.