By: Sean Jackson (Examiner.com) — The Football Writers of America came out with their watch lists for the Outland Trophy and the Bronko Nagurski Trophy.

The Outland Trophy rewards the nation’s top offensive lineman. Buckeyes Mike Brewster, Justin Boren and Bryant Browning are on the list. Four Buckeyes have won the award. They are Jim Parker (1956), Jim Stillwagon (1970), John Hicks (1973) and Orlando Pace (1996).

The Bronko Nagurski Trophy rewards the nation’s top defensive player. Buckeyes Cameron Heyward and Ross Homan are on the list. Only one Buckeye has won the award. James Laurinaitus won the award in 2006.

The selections are not a surprise. Boren, Browning and Brewster should be the anchors of the o-line. The line should be more consistent this season given their experience.

Heyward and Homan are solid performers who have shots at earning All-American honors before season’s end. With their leadership and the talent around them, this defense may be better than last year’s.

While competition for these awards is intense, don’t be surprised to see Buckeyes at the top of both lists at the end of the season.

Related posts:

1. 2010 Ohio State Football Predictions