Georgia Bulldogs preseason honors and watch lists, complete recap
Nov 30, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Hutson Mason (14) rolls out on a pass play in the first half against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports
Davey O’Brien Award – Best Quarterback
Since 1977, the Davey O’Brien Award has recognized players who exemplify teamwork, sportsmanship, leadership and character in academics and athletics. The 16 semi-finalists will be announced in early November, finalists in late November, and the winner in December. No Georgia player has received the award thus far, but with an excellent returning cast of offensive talent, Hutson Mason stands a good chance of competing.
Mason was one of 39 players named to the Davey O’Brien Watch list last month. He joins 19 other seniors, 13 juniors and seven sophomores, including last year’s winner, Jameis Winston.
Doak Walker Award – Best Running Back
The Doak Walker Award named 53 running backs to the watch list. The 10 semi-finalists will be announced on November 18, three finalists on November 24, and the winner on The Home Depot College Football Awards Show on December 11. The last Bulldog to win the Doak Walker Award was Garrison Hearst in 1992, while Knowshon Moreno was a finalist in 2008.
Todd Gurley was one of 53 running backs named to the watch list this year. With a first year full-time starter at quarterback in Hutson Mason, Gurley figures to be a key part of the Bulldogs offense, so look for some stout numbers from him.
Mackey Award – Best Tight End
The selection committee named 40 players to the list, and will announce the winner on December 10. The Midseason Watch List will be revealed on October 13, semi-finalists on November 17, and the finalists on November 24. The University of Georgia is represented by Jay Rome. Romehad nine catches for 99 yards, but he missed the last four games in 2013. His 2012 season (11 catches for 152 yards, two TDs) was punctuated by a 19-yard scoring catch versus Alabama in the SEC Championship Game.
Rimington Trophy – Best Center
The Rimington Trophy watch list includes 64 centers, which were selected from three All-American Teams, Walter Camp Foundation, Sporting News and Football Writers Association of America. Semifinalists will be announced November 3, three finalists on November 24 and the winner will be announced December 11 during the annual Home Depot College Football Awards Show.
No UGA player has won since the Rimington Trophy’s inception in 2000, but four SEC players have – Barrett Jones, Alabama (2013), Maurkice Pouncey, Florida (2010), Jonathan Luigs, Arkansas (2007) and Ben Wilkerson, LSU (2004).
The Bulldogs are represented by David Andrews. Andrews started all games in 2012 and 2013, and was part of the offensive line that protected Aaron Murray on his way to four SEC records. He was also named to the Rimington Award Watch List in 2013.
Next, Defensive Awards: