Fresno State Athletics
Athlon's Ranks Dogs No. 25
5/1/2008 12:00:00 AM | Football
May 1, 2008
FRESNO, Calif. - The 2008 college football season is months away, but Bulldog fans will be pleased the national news media outlets continue to show they have high hopes for the upcoming season.
Athlon's Magazine announced today Fresno State will be ranked No. 25 in nation in the upcoming edition of its annual preseason college football issue. The magazine also predicts the Dogs will win the WAC in 2008.
Beginning with No. 25 Fresno State and counting toward the release of the 2008 College Football Annuals, Athlon will release one spot in its Top 25 every weekday for five weeks. The No. 1 team will be revealed June 4. Check AthlonSports.com every day to see who's next in the countdown as Athlon Sports celebrates its 41st season of publishing. The 2008 versions of Athlon's College Football Annuals hit newsstands June 3rd.
In addition, 13 Bulldog players were named to Athlon's All-WAC team, and return specialist A.J. Jefferson, who led the NCAA in kick return average last season as a sophomore, was named first-team All-America.
Joining Jefferson on the Athlon's All-WAC first team were quarterback Tom Brandstater, tight end Bear Pascoe, offensive guard Cole Popovich and offensive tackle Bobby Lepori.
On the All-WAC second-team were running back Ryan Mathews, defensive lineman Jon Monga, cornerback Damion Owens and safety Moses Harris.
Four Bulldogs were named third-team All-WAC: linebacker Ben Jacobs, offensive guard Andrew Jackson, running back Lonyae Miller and defensive end Wilson Ramos.
"We are glad that national magazines like Athlons have a high regard for our team and players," said head coach Pat Hill. "Having 13 players mentioned for All-WAC recognition is a tribute to the players in our program who are working hard every day. We are excited for the 2008 season."
The Bulldogs are expected to be in other top 25 rankings for several other college football magazines.
Fresno State was ranked in the early preseason Top 25 ratings by ESPN.com and CBSSportsline.com.
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