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Smith Named Athlon Preseason All-American

CEDAR FALLS, Iowa - Defensive end Elerson G. Smith was named to the Athlon Preseason All-American team released by the media outlet Wednesday.

Smith had a breakout season in 2019. He tallied 14.0 sacks, 21.5 tackles for loss, five forced fumbles and set the school record with 14 quarterback hurries in a season. He also blocked a pair of field goals, had four pass breakups and five forced fumbles. He closed the season out with 63 total tackles.

He earned first-team All-MVFC honors after an outstanding junior season that landed him in the top 10 for the Buck Buchanan Award final voting.