Dec. 19, 2006

VILLANOVA, Pa. - Senior linebacker Allyn Bacchus (Hampton, Va.) has been named a third team All-American by the Sports Network, it was announced this week. Bacchus, who started all 44 games of his collegiate career, earns All-America honors for the first time in his career.

This season Bacchus led the Wildcats with 103 tackles, including 62 solo tackles and 41 unassisted stops. Along the way he completed his perfect streak of 44 consecutive starts for his entire collegiate career. Bacchus also registered 2.5 tackles for loss, two interceptions for 20 yards, two fumble recoveries and four pass breakups this season.

In addition to receiving All-America accolades from the Sports Network, Bacchus earned first team accolades from the Atlantic 10 last month. It was the second straight season that Bacchus received all-league honors. He was a second team selection as a junior last season.

Bacchus concluded his collegiate career with 374 tackles, with 245 solo stops and 129 assisted tackles. He also registered 16.0 tackles for loss, three interceptions, three fumble recoveries, three forced fumbles and 13 pass breakups.

Despite a 2-5 start to the season, Villanova finished with a winning record after running off four straight wins to end the season. That streak included home victories over ranked opponents Richmond (#15) ad James Madison (#4), as well as road wins against William & Mary and rival Delaware.