Hall, Avery named preseason All-America
8/1/2016 12:14:00 PM | Football
HUNTSVILLE – Sam Houston State defensive end P.J. Hall and running back Corey Avery have been tabbed as STATS First-Team Preseason All-America and Third-Team Preseason All-America respectively, the publication announced on Monday.
The accolades come as the Bearkats report Thursday and open fall practice on Friday for the program's 101st season. When they do so, it will be as the preseason second-ranked team nationally, another accolade bestowed by STATS.
“Expectations are high but at the same time, every season is brand new,” head coach K.C. Keeler said. “We'll start off from ground zero and move up but I've been pleased with what I've seen so far this summer in terms of the condition we're in and the leadership we've shown.”
Hall has earned his appropriate share of preseason praise, being recognized as First-Team All-Southland. The Seguin native and two-time All-Southland first teamer is the program's all-time leader in tackles for loss (52 for 205 yards) and is second all-time at SHSU in career sacks (23).
“He's one of the best players I've ever coached,” Keeler said. “He has as quick of a first step I've ever seen. He's just such a talent. We're really looking forward to him having a big year. He has had two phenomenal years so far. The neat thing is that he's only a junior.”
Avery rushed for 1,483 yards a year ago, the third highest single season total in program history, doing so on just 194 touches. The Dallas native was named First-Team Preseason All-Southland Conference entering the upcoming year.
The Carter High School product ranked No. 2 in the Southland Conference in both scoring (108 points) and rushing (98.9 yards/game) in his first season after transferring from Kansas.
“He's beyond where I thought he would be coming into this program,” Keeler said. “He just makes so many natural cuts. Every opportunity he got, he took advantage. He's a really special talent. There are some good young backs and Remus (Bulmer) who have been pushing him this summer.”
The squad opens its 2016 campaign against Oklahoma Panhandle State on Sept. 3 at Bowers Stadium. The annual Orange Out game is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Season tickets for the teams' five home games and the Battle of the Piney Woods at NRG Stadium, are currently on sale by calling (936) 294-1729 or by visiting GoBearkats.com.
