Dec. 12, 2007

WACO, TX-- Carson-Newman linebacker Eric Rice has earned first team All-American honors by the American Football Coaches Association.

Rice was the leading tackler on an Eagle team that led the South Atlantic Conference in rush defense. He finished the 2007 season with 48.5 tackles. The Thomasville, Georgia native collected five sacks and an interception against FCS foe Chattanooga that helped C-N defeat the Mocs, 29-17. Rice was also named the South Atlantic Conference Defensive Player of the Year.

Rice was one of two South Atlantic Conference players named to the AFCA All-American team. The Eagles finished the 2007 season at 10-1 and were co-champions of the South Atlantic Conference.