Strong, Taua earn more preseason watch list honors

Both Nevada quarterback Carson Strong and running back Toa Taua were named to preseason watch lists Thursday.

Strong was named to the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award watch list, while Taua was named to the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award watch list.

Strong was the Mountain West’s best quarterback last season. The reigning Mountain West Offensive Player of the Year award winner led the conference in passing yards (2,858), passing touchdowns (27) and completion percentage (70.1). Taua tallied 675 rushing yards on 114 carries (5.9 ypc) with four touchdowns, adding 31 receptions for 214 yards and an additional touchdown.

Both of whom have earned multiple preseason honors. Strong was named a candidate for the Maxwell, Davey O’Brien and Manning Award, along with the CFPA National Performer of the Year Trophy. Taua was previously named to the Reese’s Senior Bowl watch list.

Both look to produce strong seasons in 2021, with their first game coming on Sept. 4 against California.