FSU Football: Several Nole players on national award watchlists
By Cole Maines
Camren McDonald- Mackey Award, Wuerffel Tophy
I think I am higher on McDonald than most and think he could be one of the biggest keys to the offense’s success both as a blocker and as a pass-catcher.
He was a favorite of Jordan Travis last season in the emergency offense and appeared to be the most sure-handed option for Milton.
Florida State Seminoles Football
He contributed 263 yards and two touchdowns last year and did so efficiently despite offensive limitations. He will be looking for more and has circled the Mackey award as one he covets for this year.
The Mackey is for the best tight end in the nation. He has competition from Arik Gilbert of Georgia, Jahleel Billingsley of Alabama, Sam LaPorta of Iowa, and Jalen Wydermeyer of Texas A&M.
Overall, I’d say this year is light at tight end and if Camren McDonald has a great season due to him being in his money year and the younger options fall back. McDonald’s chances are low as Iowa is a total tight-end factory and the others are highly rated players on good teams where McDonald isn’t.
The Wuerffel is an academic, community service, and athletic award. That is very much within McDonald’s wheelhouse. It won’t be as physically demanding due to the other elements contributing to the decision. He has a significant off-the-field presence as a Seminole Scholar and is one of the clubhouse leaders during community service projects.
The biggest question mark is how much he is used in passing concepts which depends on which quarterback they use and which offense they run as they will help him in pursuits of both awards. His repertoire with both quarterbacks helps a bit, but usage is key.