Wednesday Quickies: Preseason Trophy Watch Lists Edition

Drake Jackson and Darian Kinnard are being projected as two of the top offensive linemen in the nation

By Zac Oakes@ZacOakes Jul 22, 2020, 6:40am EDT

We already knew Kentucky had a lot of talent returning on the offensive line, but another confirmation comes with the announcement that Drake Jackson and Darian Kinnard were named to the preseason watch list for the Outland Trophy, given annually to the top interior lineman in the nation.

Jackson, who was a candidate in 2019 for The Rimington Trophy, has made 33 consecutive starts for the Wildcats at center, and has been an integral part of the offensive line’s success over the last few seasons.

Jackson was also named first-team All-SEC by Athlon Sports and the Associated Press in 2019 and was recently named preseason first-team All-SEC by Athlon for 2020.

Kinnard came on strong last season, starting all 13 games at right tackle and garnering only one penalty in more than 700 snaps. The junior from Knoxville has consistently drawn high marks from Pro Football Focus for his performance last season.

The list includes 32 offensive tackles, 21 offensive guards, 17 defensive tackles and 15 centers.

Last week, outside linebacker Boogie Watson was named to The Chuck Bednarik Award watch list for the nation’s top defensive player in college football. He is the SEC’s leading sack returner after totaling 6.5 total sacks last season.

Expect more preseason honors like these to roll in for the Cats in the coming weeks.

Tweet of the Day

Adam Kunkel, a Kentucky native, has entered the transfer portal. KSR reported today that Kentucky has been in contact with the 6’3” guard. Kunkel averaged 16.5ppg and shot 39% from 3 last season. Kunkel’s shooting ability would greatly boost the Cats already deep back court. pic.twitter.com/X5T5fyIn2k
— Kentucky Wildcats Breakdown (@GoCatsBreakdown) July 21, 2020