Although its 5-6 season was a disappointment, several MSU football players were honored by the media and coaches for their individual excellence.

Junior linebacker Josh Thornhill was honored on both ballots as first-team, and senior cornerback Renaldo Hill was selected by the coaches as a first-team defensive back.

Sophomore running back T.J. Duckett was chosen as the second-team running back for both teams. Senior offensive lineman Shaun Mason was selected to the second team by the media panel.

Senior safety Richard Newsome was selected as a second-team defensive back by the coaches and junior cornerback Cedric Henry was chosen as a second-team defensive back by the media.

MSU head coach Bobby Williams said the players were very deserving of the recognition.

“This is a great reward for our two defensive leaders, Josh Thornhill and Renaldo Hill,” Williams said in a press release. “Both players are certainly deserving of first-team honors.”

JEFF KARZEN