Four Middle Tennessee standouts were placed on the Conference USA Preseason Football team, as chosen by the league’s 13 head coaches and announced by the league office Wednesday.
Quarterback Brent Stockstill, offensive lineman Maurquice Shakir, wide receiver Richie James, and defensive back Jeremy Cutrer were voted to the team.
Stockstill was named Freshman All-American by Athlon Sports in 2015, when he also earned C-USA Freshman of the Year honors. In just one season, the southpaw became Middle Tennessee’s all-time leader in 300-yard passing games with eight and he already ranks ninth on the all-time passing list with 4,046 yards. Stockstill also ranks tied for eighth in touchdown passes with 30.
Shakir, a senior, started 12 games a year ago and led all offensive linemen with 991 snaps played. The Los Angeles, CA, native played a huge role in the offense setting single-season records in total offense, scoring and passing yards.
James played in 13 games and had 12 starts in 2015. He finished the season with 108 receptions for 1,346 yards and eight touchdowns. He also rushed 12 times for 146 yards and a score. The heralded receiver set single-season and C-USA freshman records in receptions and receiving yards to earn consensus Freshman All-American honors.
Cutrer was voted second-team All Conference-USA in 2015. He played in 10 games and earned nine starts while finishing the season with 31 tackles. He finished with three interceptions and a team-high 13 pass break-ups.
The Blue Raiders open the 2016 season on Sept. 3 at home against Alabama A&M. Kickoff is set for 6 PM and season tickets are on sale now at GoBlueRaiders.com.
