The 2012 Manning Award Watch List has made its way out and for Wyoming Cowboys quarterback Brett Smith there is plenty to celebrate. He is one of two quarterbacks from the Mountain West Conference to make the initial cut and the only sophomore quarterback to appear on the preseason list.
The Manning Award, first given out in 2005, is given out to the top quarterback after the postseason takes place. The award is given out in honor of the Manning family of quarterbacks: Archie, Peyton and Eli. Robert Griffin III of Baylor won the award this past season.
Our Wyoming blog, Cowboy Altitude, has begun its preview for this upcoming season and recently profiled the quarterbacks. Here is just a snippet of that preview:
Brett Smith amazed the Mountain West and opened some eyes on the national level with his incredible freshmen season. The dual threat from Salem, Oregon certainly exceeded expectations on the way to being named Mountain West Freshmen of the Year. 61% completion percentage, 2622 yards passing, 710 rushing yards and 31 total touchdowns.
Smith and the Cowboys start the season on Sept. 1 with a road game against the Texas Longhorns.
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