HOUSTON, TX – With the closest margin among three Major Division programs, one point, the Tennessee State Tigers and a repeat unanimous Mid-Major Division selection, Winston-Salem State Rams have claimed the top spots in the TSPNSports & Dr. Cavil’s Final HBCU Football Poll Rankings for the 2012 season.
Presented by The Heritage Group (www.THG-Agency.com), an applied data analysis, sports entertainment, educational leadership, and project management consulting company, the HBCU Football Rankings are based on a combination of a ranking algorithms and a voting system.
The polls separate the rankings of NCAA Division I, NCAA Division II and NAIA Division I member HBCU institutions into two distinct poll categories: Major and Mid-Major. Unlike the historic SBN Poll which groups all HBCUs together regardless of competition level, the Major Division Poll consists of NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) [formerly I-AA] programs and the Mid-Major Division Poll includes NCAA Division II, NAIA Division I and Unaffiliated listed programs.
This format, first introduced in 2002, was developed in response to requests of Black College fans and based on research that consists of data mining and the difference in scholarship requirements outlined in NCAA and NAIA bylaws (i.e. maximum scholarship allotment: Division I FCS = 63, Division II = 36 and NAIA = 24).
Dr. Cavil’s HBCU Football Weekly Report is proud to introduce its newly redesigned HBCU Football awards, presented at the end of the each football season.
The polls are published weekly throughout the HBCU football season and managed by Dr. J. Kenyatta Cavil, EdD, MBA, an entrepreneur, HBCU sports & sport business analyst and lecturer at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas. Cavil also serves as an Assistant Professor and acting Coordinator of the Sport Studies & Leadership Program at TSU.
Dr. Cavil’s 2012 Major & Mid-Major Division HBCU Football Awards
HBCU COACH OF THE YEAR:
MAJOR DIVISION COACH OF THE YEAR
Brian Jenkins, Bethune-Cookman University Wildcats
Coach Brian Jenkins led the Wildcats to an unblemished 8-0 MEAC record and 9-2 overall mark. The Wildcats edged out Florida A&M in the annual Florida Classic to seal its perfect record and the conference’s automatic berth to the NCAA Division I (FCS) Championships. The Wildcats finished the season as the only ranked HBCU program in the Sports Network FCS College Football Poll (25) at No. 22
MID-MAJOR DIVISION COACH OF THE YEAR
Connell Maynor, Winston-Salem State University Rams
Coach Connel Maynor led the Rams to a second consecutive unanimous No. 1 ranking in Dr. Cavil’s HBCU Mid-Major Division Football Final Top 10 Poll Rankings, CIAA Football Championship, and NCAA Division II Championship Game Finalist (14-1), successfully transitioning the program from provisional NCAA Division I status to a Division II power, over the last three years, Coach Maynor is 35-4, including two NCAA semifinals game appearances and two NCAA Division I FCS wins during that period. The Rams finished the season as one of two ranked HBCU program in the AFCA Division II Coaches’ Poll (25) at No. 2
HBCU PROGRAM OF THE YEAR:
MAJOR DIVISION PROGRAM OF THE YEAR
Tennessee State University Tigers
Coach Rod Reed led the Tigers to an 8-3 record, No. 1 ranking in Dr. Cavil’s HBCU Major Division Football Final Top 10 Poll Ranking, finish with three top five wins (3-0), wins over Arkansas Pine Bluff (No. 2; Major Division), Bethune-Cookman (No. 3; Major Division), and Jackson State (No. 4; Major Division) as well as (4-0) record against HBCU competition includes defeating unranked Florida A&M, finished first in the conference in total defense, 361.64; pass efficiency defense, 115.01 (8th HBCU Major Division Competition)
*Minimum of three HBCU Major Division games
MID-MAJOR DIVISION PROGRAM OF THE YEAR
Winston-Salem State University Rams
A perfect season against HBCU football competition, 9-0, (18-0 last two years) and second consecutive unanimous No. 1 ranking in Dr. Cavil’s HBCU Mid-Major Division Football Final Top 10 poll ranking; while a chance at an undefeated season and a NCAA Division II Championship came to an end for the Winston-Salem State University Rams as they were defeated by Valdosta State Blazers, 35-7 in the NCAA Division II Championship Game in Florence, AL, the Rams became just the second HBCU program since Coach Billy Joe led the Central State Marauders in a loss to North Dakota State in 1983 to play for NCAA Division II Championship with a 14-1 (Most wins ever by a HBCU football program), surpassing their own 13-1 mark last season in 2011, and a 14-0 in conference play the last two season, with back-to-back CIAA Conference Championships
2012 Dr. Cavil’s Postseason HBCU Football
Major Division (NCAA Division I FCS)
All-American Team
THE HBCU GRIDIRON LEGENDS PLAYER OF THE YEAR
(MAJOR DIVISION)
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
WR, Rico Richardson, (6’1″, 190, Senior; Natchez, MS), Jackson State University
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
LB, Keith Pough, (6’3″, 235, Senior; Orangeburg, SC), Howard University
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR
KR, (RB), Johntả Hebert, (5’11”, 195, Freshman; Baton Rouge, LA), Prairie View A&M University
NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR
RB, Isaiah Crowell, (5’11”, 190, Sophomore; Columbus, GA), Alabama State University
Dr. Cavil’s 2012 BCF Major Division
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
WR, Rico Richardson, (6’1″, 190, Senior; Natchez, MS),
Jackson State University Dr. Cavil’s 2012 BCF Major Division
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
LB, Adrian Hamilton, (6’3″, 235, Senior; Orangeburg, SC),
Howard University
THE HBCU GRIDIRON OFFENSIVE FIRST TEAM
(MAJOR DIVISION)
-FIRST TEAM-
OFFENSE
• QB, Nick Elko, (6’2″, 210, R Senior; Odenton, MD), Delaware State University
• WR, Rico Richardson (6’1″, 185, Senior; Natchez, MS), Jackson State University
• WR, Xavier Boyce, (6’4″, 220, R Senior; Virginia Beach, VA), Norfolk State University
• RB, Trabis Ward, (5’10”, 200, R Junior; Fort Lauderdale, FL), Tennessee State University
• RB, Isaiah Crowell, (5’11”, 190, Sophomore; Columbus, GA), Alabama State University
• TE, A. C. Leonard, (6’4″, 245, Sophomore; Jacksonville, FL), Tennessee State University
• OT, Terron Armstead, 6’5″, 320, Senior; Cahokia, IL), University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff
• OL Roger Gaines, (6’7″, 320, R Senior; Goodlettsville, TN), Tennessee State University
• C, Eugene Solomon, 6’4″, 270, Senior; Savannah, GA), Bethune Cookman University
• OL Terrance Hackney, (6’6″, 310, Junior; Chapel Hill, NC), Bethune-Cookman University
• OT Terren Jones (6’8″, 305, Junior; Fort Walton Beach, FL), Alabama State University
THE HBCU GRIDIRON DEFENSIVE FIRST TEAM
(MAJOR DIVISION)
-FIRST TEAM-
DEFENSE
• DL, Harold Love III, (6’3″, 325, Senior; Portland, OR), Bethune Cookman University
• DE, Brandon Thurmond, (6’2″, 260, Senior; Augusta, GA), University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff
• DE, Joseph LeBeau, (6’1″, 245, Junior; New Orleans, LA), Jackson State University
• DT, Robert Simpson, (6’4″, 255, Junior; Gulfport, MS), Mississippi Valley State University
• LB, Bill Ross, (6’2″, 240, Senior; Wetumpka, AL), University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff
• LB, Lynden Trail, (6’7″, 250, R Sophomore; Miami, FL), Norfolk State University
• LB, Keith Pough, (6’2″, 225, Junior; Orangeburg, SC), Howard University
• DB, Qua Cox, (6’0″, 185, R Junior; Tuskegee, AL), Jackson State University
• CB, Steven Godbolt III, (6’1″, 180, R Junior; Cross City, FL), Tennessee State University
• CB, D’Vonte Graham, (5’9″, 180, Junior; Tallahassee, FL), North Carolina A&T State University
• FS, Kejuan Riley, (6’0″, 180, Junior; Wetumpka, AL), Alabama State University
THE HBCU GRIDIRON SPECIAL TEAMS FIRST TEAM
(MAJOR DIVISION)
-FIRST TEAM-
SPECIAL TEAMS
• K, Jamin Godfrey, (6’0″, 180, Junior; Englewood, TN), Tennessee State University
• KR Arthur Goforth, (5’8″, 171, Senior; Columbia, SC), North Carolina Central University
• P, Bobby Wenzig, (6’2″, 180, Junior; San Diego, CA), Alabama State University
• PR Arthur Goforth, (5’8″, 171, Senior; Columbia, SC), North Carolina Central University
Dr. Cavil’s 2012 BCF Major Division
FRESHMAN PLAYER OF THE YEAR
KR, (RB), Johntả Herbert, (5’10”, 195, Freshman; Baton Rouge, LA),
Prairie View A&M University
Dr. Cavil’s 2012 BCF Major Division
NEWCOMER PLAYER OF THE YEAR
RB, Isaiah Crowell, (5’11”, 190, Sophomore; Columbus, GA),
Alabama State University
2012 Dr. Cavil’s Postseason HBCU Football
Major Division (NCAA Division I FCS)
All-American Team
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
WR, Rico Richardson (6’1”, 190, Senior) Jackson State University
A 2011second team selection was the only receiver in the SWAC to gain over 1,000 yards receiving this season. The senior from Natchez, MS finished the regular season with 56 receptions for 1,1081 yards which led the SWAC and is ranked 13th in the NCAA. He also led the conference in TD grabs with 10. He average 19.3 yards per catch and 98.3 per game also
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
LB, Keith Pough (6’3”, 235, Senior) Howard University
Pough became the FCS all-time record holder in tackles for a loss with 83 to cap his four-year collegiate career with the Bison. Recorded 72 total tackles, 44 solo, with 10.0 for a loss of 50 yards during the 2012 campaign. Pough became the FCS all-time record holder in tackles for a loss with 83 to cap his four-year collegiate career with the Bison
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR
KR, (RB), Johntả Hebert, (5’11”, 195, Freshman), Prairie View A&M University
Hebert returned 49 kicks for 926 yards. He averaged 18.8 per kick which ranked him second in the SWAC. Johnta Hebert caught a 41 yd pass from Jerry Lovelocke in the State Fair Classic against Grambling State. Hebert also returned one kickoff for a touchdown and led the SWAC with 121.7 all-purpose yards per game
NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR
RB, Isaiah Crowell, (5’11”, 190, Sophomore), Alabama State University
Selected All-SWAC 1st team Offense, Crowell produced 159 rushes for 842 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns
-FIRST TEAM-
OFFENSE
QB Nick Elko, (6’2”, 210, Senior), Delaware State University
The 2012 MEAC Offensive Player-of-the-Year led the league in passing average (257.1ypg) and total offense (250.3ypg); and was third in passing efficiency (130.1 rating). He completed a DSU single-season record 259 passes on 412 attempts (62.5%) for 2,828 yards (also a school record) and 15 touchdowns this past season. Elko completed his Hornet career ranked second in team history in passing yards (5,754) and completions (539), and third in touchdown passes (37). He is Delaware State’s first MEAC Offensive Player-of-the-Year since Rahsaan Matthews (QB) in 2000. He is a member of the North squad in the 2012 FCS Senior Scout Bowl Game
WR, Rico Richardson, (6’1” 190, Senior), Jackson State University
A 2011second team selection was the only receiver in the SWAC to gain over 1,000 yards receiving this season. The senior from Natchez, MS finished the regular season with 56 receptions for 1,1081 yards which led the SWAC and is ranked 13th in the NCAA. He also led the conference in TD grabs with 10. He average 19.3 yards per catch and 98.3 per game also
WR, Xavier Boyce, (6’4”, 220, r Senior), Norfolk State University
Boyce earned his second straight All-MEAC honor after garnering first-team accolades last year. He led the Spartans with 58 catches for 623 yards and four touchdowns catches. Boyce ranked fifth in the conference in receptions and sixth in yards. He caught at least three passes in every game and had at least six catches in six games. He had a season-high 101 receiving yards against Savannah State. Boyce finished his NSU career with 126 catches – fourth all-time in program history – after transferring from Virginia Tech prior to his junior season
RB, Trabis Ward, (5’10”, 200, r Junior) Tennessee State University
After a stellar 2011 season, Trabis Ward continue to define his skills as he finished the 2012 season with 309 attempts, 1460yards 4.6 yards per catch and 15 touchdowns. He earned BSN FCS All-American Honorable Mention
RB, Isaiah Crowell, (5’11”, 190, Sophomore), Alabama State University
Selected All-SWAC 1st team Offense, Crowell produced 159 rushes for 842 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns
TE, A. C. Leonard, (6’4”, 245, Sophomore), Tennessee State University
Leonard, in his first season with Tennessee State after transferring from Florida, caught 51 passes for 733 yards and six touchdowns in 10 games. The 733 yards were the most by a tight end at the FCS level this year and was the fourth most throughout all four divisions of college football (FBS, FCS, D-II and D-III). He is also the first sophomore tight end to make the first team in the 26 years of The Sports Network All-America Team
OT, Terron Armstead, (6’5”, 320, Senior), University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff
Terron presence help lead his team to its 1st Championship since its induction to the SWAC in 1999. As a result of his contributions, the Golden Lions were able to produced 793 offensive plays for 3,714 in Total Offense. Armstead earned All-SWAC 2nd team Offense
OL, Roger Gaines, (6’7”, 320, r Senior), Tennessee State University
Left tackle Gaines is a second team selection for the Sports Network FCS All-American and was a part of a TSU offensive line that led the Ohio Valley Conference in rushing at 175.7 yards per game. The senior did not give up a sack all season and graded out at a 93.6. He earned OVC 1st team Offense
C, Eugene Solomon, (6’4”, 270, Senior) Bethune Cookman University
Solomon brought terror to his opponents to help the Wildcats of Bethune Cookman to a glorious season as the capped a perfect record in conference play as well as MEAC Champions. 29.4 points a game as well as produced 4,665 in Total Offense.
OL, Terrance Hackney, (6’6”, 310, Sophomore), Bethune-Cookman
Terrance Hackney has been selected to The Sports Network FCS All-America Third team. The 6-6, 310-pound offensive tackle from Chapel Hill, North Carolina is picking up his second All-America award of the year after being named to the BSN All-America squad last week. In 2012, Hackney anchored a Bethune-Cookman offensive line unit paving the way for MEAC-leading 4,665 yards of total offense.
OL, Terren Jones, (6’7”, 334, Senior), Alabama State University
Started every game at left tackle…earned All-SWAC honors for third straight season while garnering second straight first-team selection…helped Hornets gain more than 400 yards total offense four times and score at least 30 points in six consecutive games, longest streak since 1991-92…Alabama State rushed for more than 2,000 yards this season with a conference-best 31 rushing touchdowns
DEFENSE
DL, Harold Love III, (6’3”, 325, Senior), Bethune Cookman University
The Wildcats were wild and tenacious against their opponent as they were no. 1 in Scoring Defense in the Mideastern Athletic Conference 1ith 12 touchdowns, averaging 13.5 points per game, with a total of 108. The result of these numbers was a contribution from Harold Love III. He is accounted for 20 solos, 35 asst, 3.5 sacks, 1 fumble, and ended season with 55 tackles for the season
DE, Brandon Thurmond, (6’2”, 260, Senior), University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff
Thurmond was electrifying this season for the Golden Lions as they clinched the west division of the SWAC as well as Champions of the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Brandon recorded 41 solos, assist 29, 17.5 leads the nation in sacks with a total of 70 tackles for the season. Thurmond earn first team ALL-SWAC, and first team BSN FCS All-American
DE, Joseph LeBeau, (6’1”, 245, Senior), Jackson State University
Joseph LeBeau (DE) was All-SWAC 1st team Defense. He had 45 solos, 21 asst, and 10.0 sacks for a loss of total 72 yards. LeBeau is ranked third in the nation in tackles for loss with 16-57
DT, Robert Simpson, (6’4”, 255, Junior), Mississippi Valley State University
Simpson had 29 solo, 30 asst, and 7 sacks with the total 59 tackles. He earned All- SWAC 1st-eam Defense and BSN FCS All American 1st team Defense. Delta Devils 2nd in Scoring Defense with 27 touchdowns, 206 points, 18.7 avg/g. 1st in Total Defense 3,071 yards allowed, 1st in Rushing Defense 1,278 yards and 16 touchdowns allowed and 2nd in Pass Defense with 1793 18 touchdown allowed in the SWAC
LB, Bill Ross, (6’2”, 240, Senior), University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff
Ross produced 70 solos, 57 asst., 2 sacks, and 3 int. for a loss of 110 yards. He was selected All-SWAC 1st team Defense. Ross was named Most Outstanding Defensive Player of the SWAC Championship Game after logging 8.5 tackles, including one for loss. He helped lead the Golden Lions to their first SWAC Championship Game Crown and the first team in school history to have a 10 win season
LB, Lynden Trail, (6’7”, 250, Sophomore), Norfolk State University
Lynden was given honorable mention honors on the recently released Beyond Sports Network (BSN) FCS All-America team. Despite starting just three games in his debut season at NSU after transferring from the University of Florida, Trail emerged as a force for the Spartan defense. Trail led NSU with 70 total tackles, including 17 for lost yardage, to earn first-team All-MEAC accolades. He also tied for the team-lead with six sacks and added four pass breakups; eight quarterback hurries, two fumble recoveries and one forced fumble
LB, Keith Pough, (6’3”, 235, Senior), Howard University
Pough ranks 13th in total tackles as well as in tackles for a loss in the conference. He also recorded 3.5 sacks for a loss of 35 yards, two quarterback hurries, one block, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries and earned his first-career touchdown in a come-from-behind victory over Delaware State. Pough has earned MEAC Defensive Player of the Week accolades twice this season and is selected to play in the 88th Annual East West Shrine Bowl, scheduled for January 19, 2013 at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL
FS, Kejuan Riley, (6’2”, 208, Senior), Alabama State University
Riley becomes a three-time Sports Network FCS All-America at free safety (2nd Team 2010; 1st team 2011). Riley is Alabama State’s career leader in interceptions (21) and interception return yards (348), and ranks first and second, respectively, on the active FCS lists in both categories. This season, Riley tied for the conference leads with four interceptions, while ranking fourth on the team with 55 tackles (39 solo), 3.0 tackles for loss, four passes defense, and one forced fumble. Riley made interceptions in back-to-back games twice this season (vs. Mississippi Valley State / at Grambling; at Prairie View/at Southern). Riley also earned first-team All-SWAC honors for the third time.
CB, Steven Godbolt III, (6’1”, 180, r Sophomore), Tennessee State University
Godbolt is one of three sophomores on the first and second team defensive units. He picked off six passes in 10 games to finish first nationally in interceptions per game (0.60). He had two separate streaks during the 2012 season of three consecutive games with an interception. Godbolt III recorded 37 solo 8 asst., 45 total tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and 6 interceptions 67 total yards for Tigers in the 2012 season. He earned ALL-OVC 1st team Defense and BSN FCS All-American 2nd team Defense
CB, D’Vonte Graham, (5’9”, 180, Junior), North Carolina A&T State University
The Aggies play an aggressive style of defense, which is predicated on blitzing the passer. It forces A&T defensive backs to play a lot of one-on-one coverage. Graham relishes the opportunity to cover receivers one-on-one. He was third in the MEAC in interceptions (four) and passes defended (12). He was tied for 23rd in the nation in interceptions. Graham returned an INT 58 yards for a touchdown in a 38-10 win over Howard on Oct. 13. He also returned a fumble 10 yards for a touchdown against South Carolina State
SPECIAL TEAMS
K, Jamin Godfrey, (6’0”, 180, Junior), Tennessee State University
Jamin was 16/20 field goals and was 80.0 this 2012 season. He earned All-OVC 1st team Offense
KR, Arthur Goforth, (5’8”, 171, Senior), North Carolina Central University
Goforth ranked second in the MEAC and 26th in NCAA Division I-FCS in all-purpose yards with an average of 134.9 yards per game. He scored three touchdowns on special teams (two punt returns, one kickoff return), broke the NCCU single-season record with a punt return average of 35.8 yards per attempt, and also established a new school record with a 92-yard punt return for a touchdown.
P, Bobby Wenzig, (6’2”, 185, Junior), Alabama State University
Led the SWAC and ranked third in the nation in punting in earned Sports Network FCS All-America accolades for the first time. He averaged a career high in punting average (45.6 yards), punts of at least 50 yards (20), and punts downed inside the 20 (24). Wenzig was a six-time SWAC Special Teams Player of the Week winner and a one-time National Special Teams Player of the Week honoree, had a game average of at least 46.0 yards per punt six times, and also had one rush for 14 yards leading to game-winning touchdown at Grambling State. Wenzig is a two-time All-SWAC recipient, and earned first-team honors this season
PR, Arthur Goforth, (5’8”, 171, Senior), North Carolina Central University
Goforth topped the MEAC and ranked 21st in the nation with an average of 26.2 yards per kickoff return, including a 90-yard touchdown. Goforth ended his collegiate career as only the third Eagle to amass more than 4,000 all-purpose yards, finishing with 4,021 (968 rushing, 368 receiving, 567 punt returns, 2,118 kickoff returns)
2012 Dr. Cavil’s Postseason HBCU Football
Mid-Major Division (NCAA Division II & NAIA Division I) All-American Team
THE HBCU GRIDIRON LEGENDS PLAYER OF THE YEAR
(MID-MAJOR DIVISION)
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
QB, Kameron Smith, (6’1″, 187, R Senior; Garner, NC), Winston-Salem State University
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
LB, Carlos Fields Jr, (6’2″, 215, Senior; Henderson, NC), Winston-Salem State University
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR
LB, Se’Cortney Gardner, (6’0″, 165, Freshman; Prattville, AL), Clark-Atlanta University
THE HBCU GRIDIRON OFFENSIVE FIRST TEAM
(MID-MAJOR DIVISION)
-FIRST TEAM-
OFFENSE
• QB, Kameron Smith, (6’1″, 187, R Senior; Garner, NC), Winston-Salem State University
• RB, Derrick Washington, , (6’0″, 215, Senior; Raymore, MO),Tuskegee University
• RB Daronte McNeil, (6’3″, 253, Senior; Elizabeth City, NC), Elizabeth City State University
• TE Vance Lockett, (6’1″, 225, Sophomore; Fulton City, KY),Kentucky State University
• WR Tyron Laughinghouse, (6’2″, 175, R Senior; Greenville, NC), St. Augustine’s University
• WR Christopher Slaughter, (6’3″, Senior; Fort Valley, GA), Fort Valley State University
• OL, David Garbo, (6’4″, Senior; Quitman, GA), Fort Valley State University
• OL, Lester Jackson, (5’10”, 210, Junior; Prichard, AL), Miles College
• OL, Stedman Gardner, (6’4″, 290, R Senior; Gastonia, NC), St. Augustine University
• OL, Nathanial Hartung, (6’2″, 380, Junior; Butler, PA), Winston-Salem State University
THE HBCU GRIDIRON OFFENSIVE FIRST TEAM
(MID-MAJOR DIVISION)
-FIRST TEAM-
DEFENSE
• DL Vanchard Goodridge, (6’2″, 260, Senior; St. Petersburg, FL), Clark-Atlanta University
• DL, Barry Trip, (6’0″, 290, Senior; Snow Hill, NC), Winston-Salem State University
• DL, Justin Blash, (6’5″, 345, Senior; Alma, GA), Albany State University
• DE, Carlos Ware, (6’3″, 222, Senior; Cincinnati, OH), Kentucky State University
• LB, Carlos Fields Jr., (6’2″, 215, Senior; Henderson, NC),Winston-Salem State University
• LB, William Buford, , (6’0″, 190, Senior; Thomasville, AL), Tuskegee University
• LB, Dajuan Williams, (6’0″, Senior; Baxley, GA), Fort Valley State University
• DB, Leron Furr, (6’3″, Junior; Columbus, GA), Fort Valley State University
• DB, Justin Oliver, (6’1″, 190, Senior; Pennsauken, NJ), Morehouse College
• DB, Malcolm Rowe, (6’2″, 200, Senior; Fayetteville, NC), Winston-Salem State University
• DB, Andre Kates, (5’11”, 200, Senior; Washington, DC), Virginia Union University
THE HBCU GRIDIRON SPECIAL TEAMS FIRST TEAM
(MID-MAJOR DIVISION)
-FIRST TEAM-
SPECIAL TEAMS
• K, Kyle Jaski, (5’11”, 209, Sophomore; Escondido, CA), Lincoln University
• KR, (PR), Tyron Laughinghouse, (6’2″, 175, R Senior; Greenville, NC), St. Augustine’s University
• P, (K), Justin Rosenbaum, (6’2″, Senior; Owosso, MI), Fort Valley State University
• PR, (KR), Darnell Evans, (5’8″, 181, R Junior; Madison, NJ), Shaw University
-FIRST TEAM-
OFFENSE
QB, Kameron Smith, (6’1”, 187, r Senior), Winston-Salem State University
This year’s All-Conference team is led by Offensive Player of the Year, Kameron Smith of the #2 Winston-Salem State University Rams. Smith starts at the quarterback position and has completed 170 of 280 pass attempts (60.7%, 2710 yds.) and lead the conference with 42 total touchdown passes for the Rams
RB, Derrick Washington, (6’0”, 215, Senior), Tuskegee University
Washington led the SIAC in rushing with 1,399 yards rushing (139.9 yards per game) and 13 touchdowns on 8.1 yards per carry. Washington, a transfer from the University of Missouri, ranks 8th overall in rushing in Division-II. Washington rushed for 224 yards on 18 carries and two touchdowns to lead Tuskegee to its first SIAC Football Championship since 2009. He was also named MVP of the SIAC Championship game
RB, Daronte McNeil, (6’2”, 220, Senior), Elizabeth City University
Daronte Mc Neil had an astonish season with 316 rushes, 1344 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns
TE, Vance Lockett, (6’3”, 231, Senior), Kentucky State University
Vance collected 13 receptions for 140 receiving yards for the 2012 season for the Thoroughbreds
WR, Tyron Laughinghouse, (6’2”, 180, Senior), St. Augustine’s University
An explosive dual threat, Laughinghouse caught 59 passes for 801 yards and 12 touchdowns at wide receiver for the Falcons this season. He led the Falcons to a 6-4 overall record, which is their second winning mark in three seasons. His 16 touchdowns and 96 points lead the CIAA
WR, Christopher Slaughter, (6’3”, 180, Senior), Fort Valley State University
With the 2nd best team in the conference in Pass Offense of 2280 passing yards and 20 touchdowns, we can truly say that 1st Team All-SIAC, Christopher Slaughter produced half those number with 52 receptions, 1051 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns
OL, David Garbo, (6’4”, 312, Senior), Fort Valley State University
David Carbo and the Wildcats offensive line of Fort Valley State control the line of scrimmage to be accounted for 2nd in Scoring Offense with 268 total points, and 2nd in Pass Offense with 1373 passing yards and 12 touchdowns for the season
OL, Lester Jackson, (6’0”, 283, Senior), Miles College
Miles offensive lineman Lester Jackson, Jr. is a 6-0, 283, senior on the Golden Bears football team, as he has been named the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Offensive Lineman of the Week in week nine for October 27, 2012. It’s the first honor of the season for Lester and the 9th for the Miles football team. The Tuscaloosa, AL, native led #15 ranked Miles College by grading out at 96% in Miles 49-13 win over Stillman College. Jackson led the Golden Bears offense to 430-yards of total offence (318-yards in rushing and 112-yards in passing)
OL, Stedman Gardner, (6’4”, 290lbs, r Senior), St. Augustine’s University
The reason for St. Augustine University for being 2nd in conversion in the CIAA, because of ALL-CIAA First Team Gardner and his offensive line produced 93 of 204 3rd downs were made in which that is 43%
OL, Markus Lawrence, (6’4”, 290, Senior), Winston-Salem State University
1st Team Offense selection of the CIAA Conference, Lawrence was a part of one of the most explosive offensive teams in the Mid-Major Division. His contributions is a result of 6764 Total Offense and a National Championship for the Rams for the 2012 football season
OL, Nathanial Hartung, (6’2”, 380, Junior), Winston-Salem State University
Nathanial Hartung performance provided great protection for fellow teammate and 1st team ALL-CIAA QB Kameron Smith for account of 3043 passing yards and 42 touchdowns
-FIRST TEAM-
DEFENSE
DL, Vanchard Goodridge, (6’2”, 260, Senior), Clark-Atlanta University
The First All-SIAC Vanchard was a nightmare for opposing offenses this season. Despite facing many double teams, the senior finished the season with 51 tackles, 16 tackles for losses, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries for Clark Atlanta this year. Goodridge recorded 8.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss. Williams is the third player to earn three straight AFCA Division II All-America honors
DL, Barry Trip, (6’0”, 290, Senior), Winston-Salem State University
The First Team All-CIAA selected produced 15 solos, 18 asst., 2.0 sacks, and 1fumble recovery with a total of 33 tackles
DL, Justin Blash, (6’5”, 320, Senior), Albany State University
He recorded 14 solos, 16 asst., 1.5 sacks with a total of 30 tackles for the Rams this 2012 season as he was selected as First Team All-SIAC
DE, Carlos Ware, (6’3”, 222, Senior), Kentucky State University
First Team All-SIAC, Carlos Ware produced 19 solos, 20 asst., 6.5 sacks with 39 total tackles as he helped the Racers to become 2nd in Pass Defense in the SIAC conference
LB, Carlos Fields Jr., (6’2”, 215, Junior), Winston-Salem State University
Defensive Player of the Year, Carlos Fields, Jr. also represents #2 Winston-Salem State University Rams, where he has finished the season with 69 total tackles (38 solo, 31 assisted) and six tackles-for-loss for nineteen yards. Fields, as captain, has led his Rams to the number one total defense in the conference averaging 279.8 yards per game
LB, William Buford, (6’0”, 200, Senior), Tuskegee University
The First Team All-SIAC selected William as he contributed 31 solos, 27 asst., 5 int. 1 fumble recovery with a total 58 tackles for the Golden Tigers
LB, Dajuan Williams, (6’2”, 185, Senior), Fort Valley State University
Williams led the Wildcats with 6 int., 197 yards and 3 touchdowns as he was selected as First Team All-SIAC
DB, Leron Furr, (6’3”, Junior), Fort Valley State University
One of Fort Valley’s big playmakers on defense was named Defensive MVP of the Fountain City Classic and SIAC Championship Game, in a losing effort. Furr led the nation (National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II) in tackles for losses during the regular season with a total of 26.5. The Columbus, GA native finished the season with 32 tackles for losses totaling 108 yards. He also finished third in the SIAC in quarterback sacks with 6.5; and fourth in the conference in overall tackles with 110 (60 solo, 50 assists)
DB, Justin Oliver, (6’1”, 190, Senior), Morehouse College
First Team Defense All-SIAC player, Justin Oliver accounted for 39 Solos, 44 asst., 2 int. for a total loss of 50 yards, and a total of 63 tackles
DB, Malcolm Rowe, (6’1”, 200, Senior), Winston-Salem State University
Rowe recorded 46 solos, 36 asst., and 2 int., with a total of 82 tackles for the Rams this season as he was selected First Team All-CIAA
DB, Andre Kates, (5’11”, 200, Senior), Virginia Union University
Kates who led VUU with five interceptions in 2012, has been selected to play in the 2013 NFLPA Collegiate Bowl, to be played on January 19, 2013, in the Home Depot Center in Los Angeles, CA. Kates, was also fourth on the team with 49 tackles in 2012. He was the only Virginia Union player named First-Team All-CIAA, as well as being Daktronics Second-Team All-American. Kates was 14th in the nation in interceptions.
He was the only Division II football player selected for the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl
-FIRST TEAM-
SPECIAL TEAMS
K, Kyle Jaski, (5’11”, 209, Sophomore), Lincoln University
During the 2012 season, Jaski was selected to the All-CIAA Second Team and earned CIAA Special Teams Player of the Week honors on Oct. 8. He booted a career-long 42-yard field goal against Virginia Union and was 6-of-10 on field goals during the season. A member of the 2011 Dean’s List, Jaski averaged 40.6 per punt and had 12 punts inside the 20. He also averaged 49.1 yards on kickoffs
KR, (PR), Tyron Laughinghouse, (6’2”, 175, r Senior), St. Augustine’s University
Saint Augustine’s University’s Tyron Laughinghouse is Special Teams Player of the Year. Laughinghouse leads the conference for total yards in both the Punt and Kick Returns category with a total of 14 kick returns for 562 yards and 12 for 184 yards on punt returns with a total of four touchdowns
P, (K), Justin Rosenbaum, (6’2”, 185, Senior), Fort Valley State University
Finished this season as the nation’s fifth best punter (National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II). On 67 punts totaling 2,945 yards, he averaged 44 yards per punt. His longest punt of the season was 66 yards and he had 24 punts that were over 50 yards each. Only nine of his punts were touchbacks; seven were fair caught; and only one was blocked. His 44 yards per punt average is new FVSU record for career average per punt. In addition to the First-Team All Super Region Two selection, Rosenbaum was named First-Team All-SIAC Punter and Place Kicker for this season. As a kicker, Rosenbaum leaves FVSU with practically every record in tow. He holds the school record for the longest field goal (57 yards); the most field goals in a career (37); and is tied for the most field goals in a single game (3). His 37 career field goals rank him third in the nation in that category (In 44 games, Rosenbaum made 37 of 72 field goal attempts for a 51.39% conversion rate).
PR,(KR), Darnell Evans, (5’9”, 181, Junior), Shaw University
Evans excelled on special teams, finishing third in the nation in both kick returns and punt returns and leading the conference in punt returns with a 18.80 yard per return average. He averaged 31.75 yards per kickoff return. He scored a touchdown each on kick and punt returns.
