2012 Butkus Award Watch: Two Penn State Players And Three Local High School Players Make List

On Monday morning, the 2012 Butkus Watch list was released with much fanfare from college football followers across the country. For those who need a refresher, the Butkus Award goes to the best linebacker in the nation.

In Pennsylvania, folks have much to be excited about as two Penn State Nittany Lions adorn the list along with three local high school products.

For the Nittany Lions, Gerald Hodges and Michael Mauti made the cut. Hodges is especially known for his play, making the Bednarik Award watch as well for best defensive player in the country.

On the high school side of things, Alex Anzalone from Wyomissing High School in Pennsylvania makes the list. Anzalone is the only player from PA to have such an honor.

Two boys made the list from southern New Jersey including Dajuan Drennon and Buddy Brown. Drennon hails from Sicklerville, New Jersey and attends Timber Creek High School while Brown attends Willliamstown High School.

For more on the Penn State football team, please be sure to check out our blog Black Shoe Diaries and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.