Seven named All-Big East

For the Syracuse University football team (5-6, 1-6 Big East), it was season that ended in disappointment. The team fell in its final game to Pittsburgh, capping a five-game losing streak and missing bowl eligibility by one game. This came on the heels of a 2010 season, capped by a victory against Kansas State in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl.

Individually, though, the Orange had some success. Today, the team saw seven of its players achieve All-Big East status.

On the defensive side of the ball, Chandler Jones made the First-Team, despite missing five games this season. It was his second consecutive All-Big East honor. The defensive end finished with 38 tackles, four and a half sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception. Middle linebacker Marquis Spruill made an appearance on the Second-Team, finishing with 62 tackles, three sacks and two fumble recoveries.

On the offensive side of the ball, Antwon Bailey garnered a First-Team selection through his 1,051 rushing yards, 200 receiving yards and seven total touchdowns. Two of the men blocking in front of him, left tackle Justin Pugh and right guard Andrew Tiller also received First-Team accolades.

Two of Ryan Nassib’s pass catchers also made an appearance on these teams. Tight end Nick Provo, a John Mackey Award semifinalist, made the First-Team with his 51 receptions, 537 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. On the Second-Team was Alec Lemon, as the wide receiver had 68 receptions for 834 yards and six touchdowns. Both also set the Syracuse record for single-season receptions for their respective positions.

Though these accolades come after a trying season, there’s good news for Orange fans. Of the recipients, only Tiller, Bailey and Provo will not return for the Orange next season, so 2012 remains bright for SU.