Aug. 18, 2009

Official press release and complete watch list

By Nick Frank
Athletic Media Relations

HOUSTON, Texas – Colorado State offensive guard Shelley Smith has earned another preseason honor.

Smith, a 6-foot-4, 300-pound senior from Phoenix, Ariz., received recognition Tuesday on the watch list for the Rotary Lombardi Award, given annually to the best college football lineman -- offense or defense -- who, in addition to outstanding performance and ability, best exemplifies the discipline of Vince Lombardi. The Rotary Lombardi Award Foundation made the announcement Tuesday.

A third-year starter, Smith  also received preseason all-Mountain West Conference honors last month. In 2008, Smith garnered second-team all-MWC honors while playing in 12 games, including the New Mexico Bowl. He has started 23 games at guard for the Rams.

The last Ram to be named to the Lombardi watch list was offensive lineman Erik Pears, currently a member of the Oakland Raiders, in 2004.

There are 11 players nominated for the award from the MWC.

Smith is the third member of the CSU offense nominated during the preseason for a national award, joining fellow offensive lineman Tim Walter (Rimington Trophy, top center) and wideout Rashaun Greer (Biletnikoff Award, top receiver).