A Few Notes

Awards
Linebacker James Laurinaitis was named one of three finalists for the Butkus Award. Joining him are last year's winner Paul Posluszny (Penn State) and Patrick Willis (Mississippi.) The award winner will be announced the second week of December in Orlando Florida. OSU's only Butkus winner, Andy Katzenmoyer won it during his sophomore season in 1997. Laurinaitis leads the Buckeyes with five interceptions and 86 tackles. He also has 8.5 tackles for loss and four sacks.
Defensive lineman Quinn Pitcock has been named one of four finalists for the Lombardi Award, which goes to the nation's best lineman or linebacker. AJ Hawk won the award last year. Cornerback Antonio Smith is listed as a finalist for the Thorpe Award, which goes to the top defensive back. It is a great honor for Smith considering he is a former walk-on, that earned his spot before the season began. Quarterback Troy Smith is still on the top of many Heisman trophy lists.

Injury?
It was released today that Troy Smith has been playing with a sore thumb on his right, throwing hand. He can't pinpoint when it started, but he will continue to play through the injury.

NFL?
Running back Antonio Pittman has already said he plans to return for his senior year. It sounds like receiver Anthony Gonzalez will be back for his last year. Ted Ginn, Jr. has not given a straight answer, so depending on how his season ends, he may make the jump to the NFL.