Oklahoma linebacker duo on watch to be the best in college football

The Oklahoma Sooners had two linebackers on the watch list for the Butkus Award, which is given to the best linebacker in college football.

Kip Lewis and Sammy Omosigho were on the list while heading into a season that someone has to fill the void of Danny Stutsman, who was a Butkus Award finalist last year before jumping to the NFL.

Kip Lewis, Sammy Omosigho on Butkus Award watch list

This was the second time Lewis popped up on a preseason watch list. He was also on the watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, which is presented to the most outstanding defensive player, regardless of position.

Last season as a redshirt sophomore, Lewis had 65 tackles, four tackles for loss, two interceptions, one pass breakup and one QB hurry while starting 12 games at weakside linebacker next to Stutsman. He made headlines with a pair of clutch pick-sixes in SEC victories over Auburn and Alabama.

Omosigho stepped up last season as a sophomore, appearing in every game and making three starts at cheetah while Kendel Dolby was injured. He tallied 39 tackles, five tackles for loss and one forced fumble.

With Dolby expected to play at least some cornerback this season, Omosigho could get a chance to compete with Oklahoma State transfer Kendal Daniels for the starting job at cheetah.

The Sooners will also have to replace Stutsman at middle linebacker. Kobie McKinzie appears to be the frontrunner for that spot heading into fall camp.

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