The Cowboys have two of the most intimidating linebackers in all of college football.
A few Cowboys are recognized among the top linebackers in the country heading into 2024.
The preseason watch list for the Butkus Award was released on Tuesday, featuring OSU stars Collin Oliver and Nick Martin. They are two of the seven Big 12 players included on the list.
Last year, NC State’s Payton Wilson won the award with an impressive stat line of 138 tackles, six sacks, three interceptions, and a forced fumble. To win the Butkus Award in 2024, similar performance will likely be necessary, and OSU’s duo aims to be the school’s first winner and the Big 12’s first since Von Miller claimed the title at Texas A&M in 2010.
Although Oliver is still listed as a linebacker, he is expected to play more near the line of scrimmage next season. This versatility makes him a significant threat on defense, as he can adapt to various roles as needed by defensive coordinator Bryan Nardo.
Oliver’s specific contributions for the upcoming season remain uncertain, but he is likely to rise through OSU’s career rankings. He shares the record for most quarterback hurries with Emmanuel Ogbah, is in the top 10 for tackles for loss, and ranks fifth in sacks.
Meanwhile, Martin emerged as a standout player last season, despite entering with only 16 career tackles. His 140 tackles not only led the Big 12 but also placed sixth nationally, marking the sixth-highest single-season total in OSU history.
In addition to his remarkable tackling skills, Martin has proven to be a playmaker, forcing turnovers with two interceptions and a forced and recovered fumble last season. While it may be challenging to replicate these numbers, if he maintains his performance, Martin should be a strong contender for the Butkus Award.
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