IRVING, Texas — Six Marshall players were named to the preseason All-Conference USA first team. The defending league champion Thundering Herd had the most selections in the league.
Running back Devon Johnson, offensive lineman Clint Van Horn, defensive lineman Jarquez Samuel, linebacker D.J. Hunter, punter Tyler Williams and long-snapper Matt Cincotta were selected first-team all conference as chosen by the 13 head coaches in Conference USA. Johnson Van Horn, Williams and Cincotta were among Marshall’s league-record 10 all-conference selections last December.
Johnson was C-USA’s leading rusher a season ago, plowing his way to 1,767 yards and 17 touchdowns. He led all FBS running backs with 8.58 yards per carry.
Western Kentucky quarterback Brandon Doughty was named the preseason Offensive Player of the Year, while the Defensive Player of the Year honor went to FIU cornerback Richard Leonard. UTEP kick returner Autrey Golden was projected as the top player on special teams.
The C-USA preseason poll – voted by selected media covering the league – will be announced Wednesday.