Watch Lists

Last week on the blog, we looked at Nittany Lions who were named to the Maxwell, Bednarik, and Mackey Award watch lists.  Of course, college football is a hype driven sport, so today we have even more watch lists to report!  Let's make this easy and go in the order they were announced.

First, the only returning starter on the offensive line, Donovan Smith, was named to the Outland Trophy watch list.  This is presented to the nation's top interior lineman (offensive or defensive).  Devon Still was a finalist in 2011.

Jordan Lucas picked up his 2nd preseason honor when he was named to the Jim Thorpe Award watch list, given to the best defensive back in the country.  Expectations are really picking up for the young cornerback, and combined with veteran safety Adrian Amos, last year's weakness on defense might be a strength in 2014.

Not long after that, Mike Hull grabbed his first recognition of the preseason, being named to the Butkus Award watch list for best linebacker.  He continues a rather storied history of Penn State linebackers who have either been finalists for, or won the award.  As if you needed anymore evidence why we're Linebacker U.

Like Lucas, Christian Hackenberg notched a second watch list appearance, this time for the Davey O'Brien Award, presented to the nation's best quarterback.  I will admit that I can't properly examine QB technique, but every expert out there who can has done nothing but rave about the sophmore sensation.  If Hack is even half as good as advertised (and that patchwork offensive line can keep him upright) I think we can expect fireworks this season!

Last but not least, 2/3 of Penn State's monster running attack were named to the Doak Walker Award watch list, given to the nation's top running back.  Seniors Zach Zwinak and Bill Belton were each recognized for their talents, but it's highly unlikely either will win the award.  Having two star backs means half the stats for each, and makes national attention hard to come by.

Finally, a quick scheduling update before I end on James Franklin news because, well, everybody loves James Franklin... except the SEC, but who cares about them?  Here's a great little piece about the coach's first 6 months as the head Lion.  And then, I give you the top 22 James Franklin tweets!

That's all for now, but keep it here for the rest of the offseason.  Don't forget to follow me on Twitter @PSUOptimus, and as always, go State!