Gautier Earns Spot On Manning Award List

Quarterback Blaine Gautier

Blaine Gautier, who set a Louisiana school record with 2,958 yards passing in 2011, is one of 25 student-athletes named to the watch list for the 10th annual Manning Award, which is presented annually by the Allstate Sugar Bowl to the top quarterback in the country.  Named to honor the accomplishments of Archie, Peyton and Eli Manning, it is the only award that includes bowl performance in the selection process.

Gautier is one of 25 quarterbacks on the list and one of the first two to be announced.  The candidates are being released by conference in conjunction with each league’s preseason football media day.  The Sun Belt Media Day is Monday (July 16) in New Orleans.

Gautier, a 6-0, 212-pound senior, was named the Louisiana Sports Writer’s Association Louisiana Offensive Player of the Year and a second team All-Sun Belt choice in 2011 after setting UL season records for yards passing (2,958), passing touchdowns (23), completion percentage (.628), passing efficiency (153.6), total offense (3,444) and touchdowns responsible for (26).

Gautier led the Sun Belt and ranked 14th nationally in passing efficiency (153.6).  He closed his junior year by setting a school single game record with 492 yards of total offense in the New Orleans Bowl win over San Diego State.

The preseason Watch List recognizes top quarterbacks in the nation based on previous collegiate performance, however, every quarterback in the nation remains eligible for the honor.  Additional quarterbacks may be added to the Watch List after the start of the season.  The list of 10 finalists will be released on Monday, Nov. 26. The winner will be announced on Wednesday, Jan. 9.