And The Winners Are...

It's not like you didn't know it, but just in case you didn't, receiver Jeff Samardzija and tight end John Carlson are among the best at their position in the country. How do we know this? Because they are in the running for national awards.

Samardzija is one of three finalists for the Biletnikoff Award, which is nothing new. He was a finalist last year, losing to Oregon State's Mike Hass.

This year Samardzija's competition is Georgia Tech's Calvin Johnson and Rice's Jarrett Dillard.

Carlson, who is out with a knee injury, is one of eight semifinalists for the John Mackey Award, given annually to the nation's best tight end.

They are among the reasons why quarterback Brady Quinn is having such a big year.

We'll know by Dec. 7 who the winners are.