The Sporting News released its preseason All-America teams on Wednesday, and five players with local/state ties made the list.
Florida State safety Derwin James and cornerback Tarvarus McFadden were both first-team selections. Neither is a surprise. McFadden was tied for the national lead with eight interceptions last year, and James is the most versatile player in the country (now that he’s healthy from a knee injury).
Their teammate, defensive tackle Derrick Nnadi, was a second-team pick.
The two others on the list weren’t quite so obvious.
Michigan offensive lineman Mason Cole was a second-team pick.