In an effort to bring media attention to those players from smaller schools that are too often overlooked for the HEISMAN and other major awards, NationalChamps.net presents our fifth annual UNDERDOG AWARD to recognize the best FBS Mid-Major player in the nation. In evaluating the rich talent found throughout the schools not aligned in BCS conferences, our commitment to finding overall excellence in college football remains at the forefront of our efforts.

The players listed below have excelled and further stand out from the many great Mid-Major players found throughout the college football landscape. NationalChamps.net initially chose 36 for our 2011 UNDERDOG AWARD Preseason Watch List, which was primarily based upon those players’ 2010 performances. Now, we present the 11 student-athletes for our 2011 UNDERDOG AWARD Semifinalists. These candidates have separated themselves from the others on the Preseason Watch List and stand out as the best 2011 Mid-Major players.

The 2011 UNDERDOG AWARD Finalists will be presented Thursday December 1st. We will name the winner of the 2011 UNDERDOG AWARD after Championship Weekend on Thursday December 8th.

PRESEASON WATCH LIST (released August 24, 2011)

Semifinalists: Monday, Nov. 21, 2011
Finalists: Thursday, Dec.1, 2011
Winner: Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011

ARCHIVES
December 10, 2010 - Kellen Moore Wins NationalChamps.net’s 2010 UNDERDOG AWARD
December 10, 2009 - Kellen Moore Wins NationalChamps.net’s 2009 UNDERDOG AWARD
December 10, 2008 - Chase Clement Wins NationalChamps.net’s 2008 UNDERDOG AWARD
December 4, 2007 - Colt Brennan Wins NationalChamps.net’s 2007 UNDERDOG AWARD