ITTA BENA -- Mississippi Valley State senior defensive tackle Robert Simpson has earned another preseason honor.

The Gulfport, Miss. native has been named to the 2013 Buck Buchanan Award Watch List, which is presented by The Sports Network to the outstanding defensive player in the FCS following the regular season.

Last season, Simpson finished second in FCS in tackles for loss with 22.5. He finished fourth in the conference in sacks with seven while recording two fumbles and 59 tackles (29 solo). Following last season, he was named First Team All-SWAC.

The Buchanan Award Watch List can undergo revision during the 2013 season. Ballots will be sent to a panel of about 175 sports information and media relations directors, broadcasters, writers and other dignitaries following the regular season. The winner will be invited to The Sports Network FCS Awards Presentation on Dec. 16.