Four Flashes Earn All-MAC Honors
11/29/2017 11:27:00 AM | Football
Complete MAC Postseason Awards
CLEVELAND- Four Kent State players were named to the 2017 All-Mid-American Conference Football Team Wednesday, led by first team selection Jim Jones (Tallahassee, Fla.). Jon Cunningham (Bedford, Ohio) and Derek Adams (Manheim, Pa.) both claimed all-conference second team honors, while Demetrius Monday (Douglasville, Ga.) joined Cunningham as a two-time selection, landing a spot on the third team.
Jones, a junior linebacker, ranks in the MAC's top five in both tackles (98) and sacks (6.0). He also led the Golden Flashes in solo tackles (52).
"Jim's come a long way," Interim Head Coach Colin Ferrell said. "He's prepared like a champion every week and we've seen his growth throughout the year."
Cunningham, a four-year starter, drew the most attention from opposing teams throughout the season. The interior defensive lineman made 51 tackles and his 10.0 tackles for loss rank among the MAC's top 15.
"Jon had another great season," Ferrell said. "The sky's still the limit for Jon and I'm excited for what the future may hold for him."
Adams, a sophomore, finished second in the MAC in punting average (43.6) and placed 20 punts inside the 20. His 74-yard blast was the longest in the MAC this season and was one of 18 boots of 50 yards or more.
"Derek might be the hardest working punter in the country," Ferrell said. "Every practice, he gets on the field early and stays after. He watches a lot of film and we continue to expect big things from him moving forward."
Monday, a fifth-year senior, ranks third in the nation in interceptions. Two of his picks came against Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson.
"Demetrius is a walking turnover-maker," Ferrell said. "He's battled injuries for the last two seasons and to his credit, he's managed to have a really big impact on our defense… not just with his play, but the rest of our secondary."
Kent State has placed three or more players on the All-MAC's top two teams in 12 consecutive seasons.
