Each year the Butkus Award searches for the nation’s top linebacker and this year, two linebackers from USC football look like they have a shot to claim that moniker.
Inside linebacker Cameron Smith and outside linebacker Porter Gustin are among the 51 linebackers on this year’s Butkus Award Watch List.
Smith was a semifinalist for the award last year, so it’s no surprise to see his name included. The veteran starter led USC in tackles for the second straight year, posting 112 tackles including 11 tackles for loss in 2017. He returns as a senior captain in serious pursuit of All-American honors.