Bryan Hudson, center for the University of Louisville, has been named to the prestigious 2023 Outland Trophy Watch List. Hudson is one of 91 returning interior linemen recognized by the awarding committee, reflecting his promising potential and previous season’s achievements.
A senior from Georgetown, Ky., Hudson returns to the Cardinals with an impressive record. He started all 13 games at center last season, helping guide the UofL offense to an average of 201.0 yards per game on the ground, which placed the team 23rd nationally. Hudson, a former Virginia Tech transfer, was also distinguished by playing 852 snaps and earning the highest performance grade on the offensive line. Additionally, he has been named a preseason first-team All-ACC choice by Phil Steele.
This year’s Outland Trophy Watch List sees a varied conference representation. In addition to Hudson from the ACC, the list includes 17 players from the SEC, 12 from the Pac-12, 11 from the Big Ten, and 10 from the Big 12. Additionally, the ACC and American Athletic Conference each have eight representatives, the Sun Belt has seven, the Mid-American and Mountain West each have five, and Conference USA and the Independents each have four.
The watch list’s breakdown reveals a balance of positions among the honored players. Of the candidates, 31 are offensive tackles, 24 are defensive tackles, 24 are guards, and 12 are centers. Almost half of the 133 Football Bowl Subdivision schools, a total of 65, are represented on the list.
The selection process for the Outland Trophy winner involves careful evaluation by the FWAA All-America Committee. After input from the entire membership, the committee selects a 26-man first team, which includes the three Outland finalists. The winner is then chosen via individual ballot by committee members. Only interior linemen on offense or defense are eligible for the award.
Players may be added or removed from the watch list throughout the season. For the first time, the FWAA will announce an Outland Trophy National Player of the Week each Tuesday this season. If the honored player is not already on the watch list, they will be added at that time. Hudson’s inclusion on this watch list sets the stage for what promises to be a standout senior year for the Louisville center.
