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WSU’s Cody O’Connell named Outland Trophy finalist

Washington State offensive lineman Cody O'Connell picks up running back James Williams after Williams ran for a touchdown during the second half of the game against Arizona in Pullman on Nov. 5. O’Connell was named a unanimouse All-American on Wednesday, the first WSU player since kicker Jason Hanson. (Young Kwak / AP)
By Jacob Thorpe jacobt@spokesman.com(509) 710-8070
Washington State offensive lineman Cody O'Connell picks up running back James Williams after Williams ran for a touchdown during the second half of the game against Arizona in Pullman on Nov. 5. O’Connell was named a unanimouse All-American on Wednesday, the first WSU player since kicker Jason Hanson. (Young Kwak / AP)

PULLMAN – Washington State left guard Cody O’Connell has been named a finalist for the Outland Trophy, which is given to the best offensive or defensive interior lineman in college football, the Football Writers Association of America announced Monday.

The other semifinalists are Alabama offensive tackle Cam Robinson and Ohio State center Pat Elflein.

The first-year starter from Wenatchee is the first Cougars Outland Trophy finalist since defensive lineman Rien Long won it in 2002. The winner of the 2016 Outland Trophy will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 8 on ESPN.

O’Connell is rated the No. 2 guard nationally and best pass-blocking guard by Pro Football Focus. He has started 10 games for the Cougars (8-3, 7-1 Pac-12) and helped protect for the nation’s No. 2 passing offense (380 yards per game). WSU’s rushing attack has increased its output from 80.1 yards per game in 2015 to 132.5 yards per game in 2016.