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CLEMSON, S.C. (AP) -- Clemson wide receiver Daniel Rodriguez is a nominee for the Orange Bowl-FWAA Courage Award.

The 24-year-old Rodriguez received the Purple Heart and Bronze Star while serving in Afghanistan. Rodriguez was part of a battle near Kamdesh when his outpost was ambushed by nearly 300 Taliban troops. Rodriguez suffered wounds to his leg, neck and shoulder.

Rodriguez pledged to a friend killed in that battle that if he returned home, he'd play college football. So far this season, Rodriguez has played on special teams, and he caught a pass in a victory over Ball State three weeks ago.

The winner will be announced in December. The organization says the award goes to a player who has displayed courage on or off the field. Michigan State's Arthur Ray Jr. won last year.