Roberts a front-runner for Payton Award

Sac State junior running back Charles Roberts was selected as a finalist for the Payton award, Division I-AA’s version of the Heisman Trophy. The Sports Network released the names of the 16 players Tuesday.

Saturday’s showing by Roberts, in which he ran for a Division I-A, I-AA, and Division II record 409 yards, significantly improved his chance for the award.

Earlier this week, Roberts was also name the ESPN/USA Today, and Sports Network Player of the Week for his performance where he ran for a school record five touchdowns.

In the 41-20 win against Idaho State, Roberts also became the Big Sky conference career rushing leader with his current total of 4,814 yards. Lastly, he had his 11^th 200-yard career game, a new Division I-AA mark.