Utah's Spencer Fano named finalist for prestigious college football award

Utah offensive lineman Spencer Fano has been named a finalist for the Outland Trophy, which honors the nation's best college interior lineman on offense or defense. Fano, a preseason All-American and top tackle prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft according to ESPN, joins Iowa center Logan Jones and Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald as finalists. This marks the second time a Utah player has been a finalist, following Jordan Gross in 2002. Fano, a junior, is projected as the No. 10 overall pick in the upcoming draft.

Fano's performance has been pivotal for Utah's offensive success this season. The Utes, with a record of 9-2, are in contention for the Big 12 championship and a College Football Playoff spot, largely due to their strong rushing attack. Utah ranks second in the Football Bowl Subdivision for rushing yards per game and rushing touchdowns. The team aims to break program records for single-season rushing yards and touchdowns in