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The John Mackey Award is given out to the nation’s most outstanding tight end. The preseason watch list was announced late last week and included Colorado State’s junior Trey McBride. There were just two other Mountain West athletes selected, Boise State’s John Bates and San Diego State’s Daniel Bellinger.
McBride is entering his true junior season and is coming off a breakout year. In 2019, his first season seeing significant action, hauling in 45 receptions for 560 yards and 4 touchdowns. He led all Mountain West tight ends in receptions, yards, and tied for the most touchdowns. Trey showcased his exceptional hands as he dropped just one pass all season long. He also flashed his after the catch ability, breaking tackles and using his speed to gain extra yards. In an offense filled with a plethora of talented receivers, McBride became one of quarterback Patrick O’Brien’s favorite targets.
With defenses focusing on Warren Jackson and Dante Wright on the outside, Trey will have every opportunity to attack the middle of the field in his second year as starter. His 6’4” and 260-pound frame with his above-average athleticism makes him arguably the most dangerous tight end in the conference, maybe even the entire Group of Five.
Since its inception back in 2000, no Mountain West player has received the Mackey Award. In fact, only one Group of Five member has ever hoisted the trophy, the one being FAU’s Harrison Bryant just last season. Bryant recorded 1,004 yards and 7 receiving touchdowns , both led all tight ends in the FBS. To reach the semifinal and especially the final list, McBride will have to post similar numbers in 2020.
The John Mackey Award semifinalists will be announced on November 18th and the final three will be named on November 25th. The ultimate recipient will be honored during the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show on December 10th. McBride has all talent it takes to win the award but with the odds stacked against him, he will have to piece together the best season by a tight end Colorado State has ever seen.