University of Richmond Athletics
Best of the Best: Hummel Honored as Campbell Trophy Semifinalist
09/24/2025 | Football
Irving, Tex. — The National Football Foundation & College Hall of Fame (NFF) has announced University of Richmond offensive lineman and team captain Scott Hummel as a semifinalist for the 2025 William V. Campbell Trophy, college football's premier scholar-athlete award.
Hummel, a standout senior and health studies major with a minor in biology, is recognized among 177 semifinalists from across all NCAA divisions and the NAIA. The Campbell Trophy, now in its 36th year, honors the top scholar-athlete in the nation for a combination of academic excellence, football performance, and demonstrated leadership.
Known for his durability, discipline, and versatility, Hummel was a key leader on Richmond's offensive line during the 2024 season, starting 11 of 13 games. He helped anchor a unit that allowed just 16 sacks all season, while the Spider offense averaged 27.15 points and 380.4 total yards per game. Richmond finished second in the CAA in rushing (2,527 yards) and fourth in total offense (4,945 yards), with Hummel playing a vital role in helping Zach Palmer-Smith become the first Spider to eclipse 1,000 rushing yards since 2015. Hummel has been a steady presence for Richmond so far in 2025, starting all four games at left guard.
In addition to his on-field impact, Hummel was honored with the Gus Lee Winter Warrior Award, given to the Richmond teammate who showed the most significant improvement during offseason training— a testament to his work ethic and leadership.
Off the field, Hummel has also made a strong impact in the community. He volunteered as a youth flag football coach with teammate Will McManus in the Under the Lights league, run by Richmond alumnus and former NFL running back Tim Hightower. Through the program, Hummel helped mentor and inspire young athletes, continuing the Spider tradition of service and leadership beyond the game.
"This year's 177 semifinalists represent the very best of what it means to play college football," said NFF Chairman Archie Manning, whose sons Peyton (Campbell Trophy® winner) and Eli were named NFF National Scholar-Athletes. "They have excelled in the classroom, distinguished themselves on the field, and proven to be leaders in their communities."
The NFF will announce 12–16 finalists on Oct. 22, each of whom will receive an $18,000 postgraduate scholarship as part of the 2025 NFF National Scholar-Athlete Class Presented by Fidelity Investments. Finalists will be honored during the 67th NFF Annual Awards Dinner Presented by Las Vegas on Dec 9 at the Bellagio Resort & Casino, where one student-athlete will be named the winner of the 36th Campbell Trophy, receiving a $25,000 postgraduate scholarship.
"Their accomplishments reflect the lasting impact of our game — building character, discipline, and leadership," said NFF President & CEO Steve Hatchell. "Selecting finalists from this outstanding class will be a tremendous challenge, but it underscores the unique prestige of this award."
