Saturday Blitz 2014 College Football Awards: Marcus Mariota, Scooby Wright Lead the Pack

Nov 1, 2014; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Georgia Bulldogs center David Andrews (61) during the second half against the Florida Gators at EverBank Field. Florida Gators defeated the Georgia Bulldogs 38-20. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Most Outstanding Center: David Andrews, Georgia Bulldogs

Awards: Rimington Trophy

Whether it was Todd Gurley or Nick Chubb, David Andrews led an offensive line with a dominant rushing attack all year. He also managed to protect a quarterback who could not really throw the ball, which is why this Georgia football team was able to get to 9-3 despite injuries and Hutson Mason’s ineffectiveness. That only comes with a great offensive line, and that’s what Georgia had. Andrews was the leader of the group and is certainly the top center in the country.

Other Finalists:

Hroniss Grasu, Oregon Ducks

Hroniss Grasu had a very strong case for top center given Mariota’s protection, but missing the Pac-12 championship game decreased his value.

Jack Allen, Michigan State Spartans

Jack Allen did a pretty good job blocking for a very efficient offense all year, but the only reason Andrews is above him is that Allen has a very good quarterback he’s blocking for. Andrews made his quarterback good.

Reese Dismukes, Auburn Tigers

There’s a very good chance Reese Dismukes would have won the award. But again, big moments count. Texas A&M at the end was a big moment, and he lost that game for the Tigers by bad snaps on back to back drives that resulted in fumbles. That can’t be forgotten.

B.J. Finney, Kansas State Wildcats

Kansas State had no dominant running back throughout the year, with quarterback Jake Waters being the guy Bill Snyder too often had to turn to to make a play. That’s nice, but it’s a knock against Finney.

Andy Gallik, Boston College Eagles

Like Andrews, Gallik blocked for somebody who couldn’t pass and was more needed than most linemen, but team performance has to be a factor, and the Eagles were only 7-5. Steve Addazio’s system also helped him.

Next: Most Outstanding Lineman