​Washington Huskies head coach Jedd Fisch was among 20 college head coaches named to the 2026 Dodd Trophy preseason watch list announced on Thursday. Fisch, who was a finalist for the 2023 Dodd Trophy during his final season at Arizona, is one of seven Big Ten Conference coaches included on the upcoming season’s watch list—the largest representation from any single conference. When Fisch appeared on the list of five finalists in 2023, a year in which the award ultimately went to Florida State’s Mike Norvell, he did not appear on either the preseason or midseason watch lists.
According to a press release, the watch list for this year was developed through a selection process conducted by the Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Foundation and Peach Bowl, Inc. The process considered each program’s Academic Progress Rate (APR) and Graduation Success Rate (GSR), along with the program’s commitment to service and charitable work in the community and the projected level of success for the 2026 season. Washington State’s APR stood at 991 for 2024-25, helping Fisch qualify for the preseason honor. The Huskies posted a 9-4 overall record last season, which sets the stage for a hopeful 2026 campaign and potential recognition for both the players and Fisch.
Jim Terry, chairman of the Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Foundation, commented on the award’s prestige in the release: “For more than five decades, the Dodd Trophy has established itself as the most coveted head coaching award in college football because it represents more than just wins on the field.” He added, “Equally as important, we also focus on a coach’s impact on developing student-athletes in the classroom and within their communities. As a result, consideration is limited to coaches who have set a standard of academic excellence and have spent at least two seasons leading their current programs, allowing them time to build a culture of success on and off the field.”
Several Huskies players have already earned preseason recognition ahead of Fisch receiving the Dodd Trophy preseason honor. Returning starting left guard John Mills and quarterback Demond Williams Jr. are among those who have received multiple preseason accolades, underscoring the talent and leadership present on the team as Fisch’s tenure continues to build toward the 2026 season. This article originally appeared on Huskies Wire in connection with coverage that aims to improve search visibility for Washington football and the Dodd Trophy preseason watch list.