With the unveiling of the Athlon Sports 2024 College Football Preview Magazine, the spotlight now turns to recognizing the top talents in the Sun Belt Conference. The 2024 All-Sun Belt Team showcases the best players anticipated to excel in the upcoming season, highlighted by standout selections from Texas State and Arkansas State. Both programs lead the pack with 16 players each on the all-conference teams, followed closely by Louisiana with 15 and Appalachian State with 14 selections.
The all-conference teams, comprising first, second, third, and fourth teams, are meticulously chosen based on projected performance for the 2024 season. While career statistics and previous accolades play a role in the evaluation, the primary focus is on forecasting the players who are expected to shine in the upcoming year. It's important to note that team strength does not influence these selections; rather, these are purely individual accolades for the best players at each position in the league.
First-Team Offense Highlights
Leading the first-team offense is Texas State's quarterback Jordan McCloud, who is poised to make a significant impact. The running back positions are anchored by Georgia Southern's Jalen White and Appalachian State's Kanye Roberts, while Texas State's Ismail Mahdi takes the all-purpose spot. The receiving corps includes Texas State's Joey Hobert, Appalachian State's Kaedin Robinson, Arkansas State's Courtney Jackson, and South Alabama's Jamaal Pritchett, with Appalachian State's Eli Wilson at tight end.
The offensive line is fortified by Arkansas State's Jacob Bayer at center, with linemen Daniel King (Troy), Makilan Thomas (Arkansas State), AJ Gillie (Louisiana), Logan Osburn (Marshall), and Cole Potts (James Madison) rounding out the front.
First-Team Defense Standouts
On defense, Texas State's Ben Bell leads the charge on the defensive line alongside Isaac Walker (Georgia Southern), Wy’Kevious Thomas (South Alabama), Denzel Lowry (Old Dominion), and Justin Rhodes (Georgia Southern). The linebacker unit is highlighted by Louisiana's K.C. Ossai, Old Dominion's Jason Henderson, Georgia Southern's Marques Watson-Trent, and Appalachian State's Nate Johnson.
In the secondary, Appalachian State's Ethan Johnson and Jordan Favors join Georgia State's Gavin Pringle and South Alabama's Jaden Voisin as cornerbacks and safeties. Marshall's J.J. Roberts completes the first-team defense.
Specialists to Watch
Special teams feature Texas State's Mason Shipley as the top kicker, with James Madison's Ryan Hanson as the punter. Arkansas State's Ja'Quez Cross is the leading kick returner, while Southern Miss's Tiaquelin Mims earns the punt returner spot.
Second-Team Highlights
The second team also boasts impressive talent, with Appalachian State's Joey Aguilar at quarterback and James Madison's Ayo Adeyi, Louisiana's Dre'lyn Washington, and Arkansas State's Ja'Quez Cross as running backs. The wide receiver group includes Georgia Southern's Derwin Burgess, Texas State's Kole Wilson, Arkansas State's Corey Rucker, and Appalachian State's Christan Horn.
Depth and Talent on Third and Fourth Teams
The third and fourth teams showcase depth and emerging talent across the conference. Notable mentions include Arkansas State's Jaylen Raynor at quarterback and Southern Miss's Rodrigues Clark at running back on the third team, as well as James Madison's Dylan Morris and Georgia State's Freddie Brock on the fourth team.
Conclusion
The 2024 All-Sun Belt Team highlights the depth of talent within the conference, with Texas State and Arkansas State leading the charge. These selections celebrate the players poised to make the biggest impact in the upcoming season, offering a glimpse into the future stars of Sun Belt football. As the season progresses, fans will eagerly watch these athletes strive to fulfill their projected potential and bring glory to their respective programs.
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