Hodge is a tough one. Varner probably didn't deserve it for the season, but he had to get some sympathy votes for his career. If I had voted, I probably would have given it to Borschel for this year with Ness then Varner close behind.
Took this from another board but this all the ranked guys Varner had to beat this year to go undefeated.
#9 Beatty 2x 1 major
#8 Yohn 2x 1 pin
#12 Gelogaev 1x 1 pin
#10 Haynes 2x 2 majors
#4 Simaz 2x 1 Tech
#2 Brester 4x
#14 Wilps 1x Major
#6 Lapotsky 1x
#20 Sorenson 2x 1 major 1 pin
#12 Bond 1x pin
#3 Taylor 1x
Ness had an easier road and lets be honest, Dennis had him beat.