DAYTON – The preseason award watch lists have been announced ahead of the upcoming fall football season and a pair of University of Dayton student-athletes have been named as players to watch.

Senior defensive lineman Mirko Jaksic was selected for the Buck Buchanan Award Preseason watch list while fellow senior wide receiver Gavin Lochow was chosen for the 40^th anniversary Walter Payton Award Preseason watch list.

"Mirko has really come into his own, bringing a big physical presence to our defensive line," said Dayton head coach Trevor Andrews. "He plays with great energy, passion, and enthusiasm, serving as a catalyst to boost his teammates when they need it most. He's an effective, every-down player who we rely on to set the tone for our defense."

Coach Andrews also had this to say about Lochow:

"Gavin has been a major part of our program since the day he stepped on campus," Andrews added. "He is a true student-athlete who excels on and off the field, checks every box for character and work ethic, and is a big-play threat every time he touches the ball. Gavin handles himself like a pro. He eats clean, works hard, and is the kind of leader you want younger players to look up to. He truly bleeds Flyer Red and Blue."

Jaksic anchors a defensive line and defensive unit that made great strides last season. The Norridge, Ill. native was named First Team All-Pioneer Football League and Phil Steele Third Team All-PFL. Jaksic posted career-highs with 11 starts, 33 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, and two sacks in 2025 and will hope to build on that heading into his senior campaign.

Lochow also picked up Stats Perform FCS Preseason Third Team All-America All-Purpose player honors this week after leading the Flyers in receiving yards and kick returns while chipping in 362 rushing yards for two scores in 2025. He was named First Team All-PFL as a receiver and special teamer, and was named Dayton's team MVP. The Proctorville, Ohio native will once again play a major role for UD on offense and special teams this season.

The Flyers have high expectations heading into the 2026 season, Coach Andrews' fourth season at the helm. Dayton opens up the season on Aug. 29 at home against Fairmont State.

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