The 2012 watch lists for both the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and the Outland Trophy were each released on Thursday, and a number of Michigan State and Michigan players were named to both lists.
For the Nagurski, which is awarded to the best defensive player in the country, as many as four local representatives helped make up the group of names. Known for their stout defense over the last few years under head coach Mark Dantonio, the Spartans feature three players on the list: linebacker Max Bullough, defensive end William Gholston and cornerback Johnny Adams. Michigan's do-it-all safety and former walk-on Jordan Kovacs was also named to the list.
Given to the top lineman in college football, the Outland Trophy has traditionally been won by either a defensive or offensive tackle in recent years. As such, Michigan's mammoth left tackle Taylor Lewan was predictably included on the watch list as he prepares to follow the footsteps of former Wolverine great Jake Long. Guard Chris McDonald from the Spartans also rounded out the list, but he faces stiff odds considering that a guard hasn't taken home the award since 1997.
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