From University of Chicago Athletics
Seven members of the University of Chicago football squad earned inclusion to the 26th-annual USA College Football Division III Pre-season All-American list on Tuesday.
The Maroons are coming off an 8-1 season in 2014 and boasted one of top defensive units in Division III. The team ranked nationally in a number of significant categories: No. 3 in first down defense, No. 7 in turnover margin, No. 7 in third-down defensive conversion percentage, No. 5 in total defense, No. 8 in rushing defense, No. 17 in fewest penalties per game, No. 19 in time of possession and No. 18 in scoring defense.
Cornerback Vincent Beltrano was a First Team Pre-season All-American pick after a stand-out junior campaign. Beltrano totaled 50 tackles and led the team with three interceptions, nine pass breakups and 12 passes defended.
A quartet of players garnered selection to the Third Team. Incoming junior linebacker Jackson Garrey paced the defense with 77 tackles while adding nine tackles for loss, five sacks, three forced fumbles and two fumbles recovered. Wide receiver Sam Coleman finished his junior season with a team-high 25 catches for 413 yards (16.5 yards per catch) and six touchdowns. Incoming senior cornerback Christopher Dengler compiled 31 tackles, one interception, five pass breakups and six passes defended on the year, while incoming senior center Brock Appenzeller played in all nine games and was a First Team All-UAA pick.
Two members of the offense were also Honorable Mention. Incoming senior tight end Nathan Massey ranked second on the team with 23 catches for 279 yards (12.1 yards per catch) and four touchdowns. Incoming junior offensive lineman Max Schumann was a First Team All-UAA pick selection and appeared in all nine contests.