The award is given to the best interior lineman in college football
Junior center Eli Cox has been named to the preseason watch list for the 2022 Outland Trophy it was announced Wednesday by The Football Writers Association of America. Cox is one of 89 returning standout interior linemen representing all 10 Division I FBS conferences and independents.
Cox, a native of Nicholasville, Kentucky, was named a midseason All-American by ESPN and the Associated Press last year after starting at right guard in the first nine games. He was named SEC Co-Offensive Lineman of the Week after helping the Wildcats pile up 330 rushing yards in the 42-21 win over LSU. Against Missouri, he recovered a fumble in the end zone that proved to be the game-winning touchdown in the 35-28 win over the Tigers.
Cox’s season was cut short after suffering an injury to his left hand vs. Tennessee that required surgery. He returned to play in the spring in his new position at center and has emerged as one of the leaders of the Big Blue Wall.