For those hoping the Syracuse offensive line can hold up without stalwart Sean Hickey, this should be a welcome sight. Senior center Rob Trudo, thought to be the best pro prospect on the Orange roster right now, was named to the 2015 Rimington Trophy Watch List today. The Rimington Trophy has been awarded to the best center in college football every year since 2000.
Should he end up winning (hey, you never know), Trudo would be the first Syracuse player to collect the honor. The last Orange player nominated was Macky MacPherson, back in 2012. Last year's winner was Auburn's Reese Dismukes. Three players from current ACC schools have won, including Florida State's Bryan Stork (2013), Virginia Tech's Jake Grove (2003) and Miami's Brett Romberg. Only Michigan has had multiple winners (in 2004 and 2011, respectively).
Joining Rob on this year's Rimington Watch List are 62 other players, with seven (including Trudo) from the ACC: Clemson's Ryan Norton, Duke's Matt Skura, Georgia Tech's Freddie Burden, NC State's Quinton Schooley, North Carolina's Lucas Crowley and Pitt's Alex Officer.
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Trudo's path to this Watch List was not a traditional one -- he's largely played guard these past three years (33 starts). But nonetheless, that's a testament to his talent and it's great to see him recognized. Good luck as the list gets trimmed down throughout the season, Rob!