Justin Dedich named to Rimington Trophy Watch List
Justin Dedich brings some high expectations with him as he makes the permanent move to center for the USC Trojans this season. On Friday, he was named to the 2023 Rimington Trophy Watch List.
The Rimington Trophy has been awarded annually to the best center in college football since 2000. The winner is the consensus All-America selection based on three All-America teams: Walter Camp Foundation, The Sporting News and Football Writers Association of America.
Dedich has been a versatile piece of the USC offensive line in his career. He’s started 20 games for the Trojans, with 10 at right guard, six at left guard and four at center. Dedich primarily played right guard last season, but took over at center for the Cotton Bowl following an injury to Brett Neilon.
PFF ranked him as the No. 1 Power Five interior offensive lineman when it came to pass blocking. His 528 pass-blocking snaps without allowing a sack were the most in the country. PFF grades were used, along with nominations from various schools, to compile this year’s Rimington Trophy Watch List.
PFF ranks Dedich as college football’s No. 5 returning interior offensive lineman and the top-ranked center on that list.
A USC player has never won the Rimington Trophy. Alabama, Michigan and Ohio State lead the way among programs with three winners each. The Wolverines added their third following the 2022 season, with Olusegun Oluwatimi taking it home.
Dedich on Other Watch Lists
This isn’t the only preseason honor for Dedich. Earlier this week he was named to both the Outland Trophy Watch List and the Wuerffel Trophy Watch List.
The Outland Trophy is awarded to the nation’s best interior lineman, either on offense or defense. The Wuerffel Trophy has been awarded annually since 2005, to the college football player who best combines exemplary community service with athletic and academic achievement.
