On Thursday, the Davey O’Brien Foundation recognized SMU quarterback Preston Stone as one of the top contenders for the title of best college quarterback in the country by placing him on its preseason watch list.
A selection panel consisting of members of the Davey O’Brien National Selection Committee evaluated past college achievements and future potential in creating this year’s list.
Stone is in top form after a stellar 2023 season in which he helped the Mustangs win their first conference title since 1984.
In his record-breaking year, the Dallas native set personal bests in both passing yards (3,197) and touchdowns (28). His passing grade of 90.9 at Pro Football Focus (PFF) was the best among quarterbacks in the American Athletic Conference (AAC). He also led the team in big-time throws (30) and ranked fourth in passer rating (110.0).
Congratulations to Preston on being included in the Davey O’Brien Award Watch List 🔥#PonyUpDallas pic.twitter.com/K3m9kIMMPV
— SMU Soccer (@SMUFB) 8 August 2024
The 2024 preseason roster includes 36 quarterbacks from all grade levels, with the majority being seniors (22) and juniors (12). The Atlantic Coast Conference and Big 12 Conference each boast eight honorees, while representatives from other conferences such as the Southeastern Conference (6), Big Ten (4), American (3), Conference USA (2) and Sun Belt (2) are represented.
An updated Midseason Watch List will be released on October 22, leaving just 35 players by October 29. This year, fans can once again influence the selection process through social media voting, which begins on October 29.
The semifinalists will be announced on November 12, and the finalists will be announced on November 26. The coveted Davey O’Brien Award winner will be announced live on ESPN on December 12 during the Home Depot College Football Awards.
The Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award is given annually and is the oldest and most prestigious award given to the nation’s best college quarterback. The 48th Annual Davey O’Brien Awards Dinner to honor the 2024 winner is scheduled for February 17, 2025, at the Fort Worth Club in Fort Worth, Texas.
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