Church members excel on college gridiron

Several LDS college football players have received national recognition for their outstanding play during the 2006 season.

University of Utah senior defensive back Eric Weddle was named a first team All-American by several organizations, including the American Football Coaches Association, Rivals.com, SI.com, CBSSportsline.com and The Sporting News. He was also placed on the Associated Press All-America second team.

A convert to the Church, Eric recorded 58 tackles and six interceptions for the Utes. He also scored eight touchdowns, finding the end zone while playing a variety of positions.

Jonny Harline, a tight end at Brigham Young University, joined Weddle on the SI.com, CBSSportsline.com and The Sporting News first team All-America lists. He is also an AP third teamer. The returned missionary led the Cougars with 754 yards receiving and 11 touchdowns.

BYU quarterback John Beck earned second team All-America honors by The Sporting News and was placed on SI.com’s honorable mention list. A returned missionary, he finished his senior season with 30 touchdown passes.

A returned missionary who plays on the offensive line, Utah's Tavo Tupola, was awarded honorable mention by SI.com.

BYU defensive lineman Jan Jorgensen was selected as a third team freshman All-American by The Sporting News.

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