Two Wilmington College football players – senior Nick Williams and junior Chase Manica — have been named to the USA College Football Division III Watch List.

Both players earned 2014 Ohio Athletic Conference honorable mention honors.

“I think it is a great honor anytime you are recognized as a potential All-American before the season even begins,” said Wilmington head coach Stacey Hairston. “It says a lot about the season you had last year and the expectations for you this year.

“Chase has the potential to meet and exceed those expectations. He had a wonderful spring with us and I know he is excited for the upcoming season. Nick has been a leader on defense who finally was able to play a full season last year after having both his freshman and sophomore years cut short by injury. I am happy for their recognition and I look forward to watching them both exceed those expectations.”

Williams (Cleveland, OH/Fairview) finished fourth in the OAC in tackling with a team-high 95. He started the season with double-figure tackles in four straight games, and recorded the feat six times. It marked the first time in his career, Williams was able to play in all 10 games.

Manica (Shelbyville, KY/Shelby County), in his first season in a Wilmington uniform, finished the season with 861 yards – good for eighth in the OAC. He rushed for more than 100 yards in four games, including a stretch of three straight. Manica gained a career-high 158 yards on just 13 first-half carries against Baldwin Wallace.

Wilmington opens the season 1:30 p.m. Sept. 5, hosting Bluffton at Townsend Field.