Spatny Named To Preseason Watch List For Buck Buchanan Award

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BETHLEHEM, Pa. – Lehigh senior defensive lineman Matt Spatny has been named to the Preseason Watch List for the Buck Buchanan Award, Stats Perform announced Wednesday. The Buck Buchanan Award is presented annually to the top defensive player in FCS football., with Wednesday's Watch List highlighting 30 of the top defensive players in the FCS.

For Spatny, the recognition is the latest in a summer that has also included first team Preseason All-America honors from Stats Perform, Patriot League Preseason Defensive Player of the Year laurels and a spot on the Preseason All-Patriot League team.

Last year, Spatny was an honorable mention Associated Press All-American and first team All-Patriot League selection. Spatny made 36 tackles last year and finished with a Patriot League-leading 11.5 sacks, ranking among the FCS leaders in both sacks and sacks per game.

This marks the second straight year a Lehigh player has received Buck Buchanan Award recognition. Linebacker Mike DeNucci was named a finalist for the award following the completion of the 2024 regular season.

The Mountain Hawks returned to campus Tuesday for preseason camp and will hit the practice field for the first time on Thursday morning.

Lehigh will open the 2025 season at home with a league contest against Patriot League newcomer Richmond, Aug. 30 at noon at Goodman Stadium. Tickets can be purchased at LehighTickets.com or by calling 610-758-4263 during business hours.

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Upcoming Event: Football at Duquesne on September 13, 2025 at 12:00 PM

Upcoming Event: Football at Bucknell on September 20, 2025 at 6:00 PM

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Upcoming Event: Football at Columbia on October 11, 2025 at 12:00 PM

Upcoming Event: Football at Fordham on October 25, 2025 at 1:00 PM

Upcoming Event: Football versus Georgetown on November 1, 2025 at 12:00 PM

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Spatny Named To Preseason Watch List For Buck Buchanan Award

Players Mentioned

Mike DeNucci

Matt Spatny

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