Orlando, FL (My Sportsbook) - Maryland's E.J. Henderson, Oklahoma's Teddy Lehman and Notre Dame's Courtney Watson were named finalists for the 2002 Butkus Award, given annually to the nation's best linebacker.

This marks the third consecutive year that an Oklahoma player has been a finalist for the Butkus Award. Rocky Calmus captured the honor last year and he was also a finalist in 2000.

Henderson, the leader of the Terrapin defense and a 2001 consensus All- American, was a finalist for the Butkus Award last year. Henderson leads Maryland with 113 tackles and has topped the squad in seven of 10 games this season in tackles. He is also tied for the team lead in forced fumbles with two and is second in sacks (4.5).

Lehman, a junior, moved to the weak side linebacker spot this season. He has 83 tackles, including 11 for minus yardage. He has two pass interceptions, which he has returned 51 yards, along with two fumble recoveries, six passes defended, six quarterback hurries and one fumble forced.

"The most impressive part of Teddy's game is just his ability," Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops said. "His ability to run and make plays from sideline to sideline is special. He has incredible range. He's the best I've ever coached in pass coverage. And he is very good against the run, which linebackers have to be first and foremost."

The Fighting Irish defense, led by Watson, is one of the best in the nation this season. Notre Dame currently ranks ninth in total defense and fifth in scoring defense and is allowing only 14.5 points a game. Watson has a team- high 81 tackles in 2002, including 44 solos. He has recorded eight tackles for loss this season and three sacks. Watson also has three interceptions, including one return for a touchdown.

What makes Watson's season even more remarkable is that he missed Notre Dame's first two games of 2002 - against Maryland and Purdue - with a severe viral infection, which landed him in the hospital for four days.

Last year, Calmus was the third Butkus Award winner from Oklahoma University. Brian Bosworth -- the award's only multiple recipient -- earned the honor in 1985 and '86.

The winner will be announced December 13.