One of the most prolific pass catchers in Middle Tennessee history has been named to the 2016 Biletnikoff Award Preseason Watch List, announced today by the Tallahassee Quarterback Club.
Sophomore Richie James is among a Who’s Who of the nation’s top receivers on the preseason watch list. He was a consensus freshman All-American by the FWAA, USA Today and Athlon Sports during a breakout 2015 campaign. He was voted first-team All-C-USA and was named to the league’s All-Freshman Team.
The Biletnikoff Award recognizes college football’s outstanding receiver at any position. James is one of seven C-USA players on the preseason list, and he is one of only two players in Middle Tennessee history to surpass 1,000 yards receiving.
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.
His 108 catches were third most nationally and went down as the fourth most all-time in C-USA history. He ranked 10th nationally in receiving yards and had four games with 10 or more receptions to go with five 100-yard receiving games.
James is also on the Maxwell Award Watchlist with QB Brent Stockstill.
