Two Bulls Named Freshman All-Americans

James Starks and Kendric Hawkins both garner honorable mention honors

Kendric Hawkins

BUFFALO, NY – Two University at Buffalo football players have been named to The Sporting News All-America Team, the publication announced last week. Redshirt freshmen Kendric Hawkins (Upper Marlboro, MD/DeMatha Catholic) and James Starks (Niagara Falls, NY/Niagara Falls) were both honorable mention selections for their play during the 2006 season.

Hawkins finished fourth on the UB defense with 70 tackles, including 53 solo stops. His eight tackles for loss were second on the squad, while Hawkins led the defensive unit with five pass breakups. Hawkins finished the year with two interceptions, including one against then second-ranked, Auburn. Hawkins picked off a Brandon Cox pass that he returned 33 yards into Auburn territory. The freshman defensive back also recovered two fumbles, while forcing one.

James Starks

Starks had a breakout season for UB starting with the first game of the 2006 season. In that game against the Temple Owls, Starks won the game on an 18-yard touchdown run in overtime. For the season, the first-year running back led the Bulls with 709 yards rushing and six touchdowns. Starks was also second on the team in receptions, hauling in 34 passes on the year. When all was said and done, Starks was named to the 2006 All-MAC Second Team.

Starks had his best game of the season in UB's 41-14 victory over Kent State. Starks ran for 162 yards, while finding the end zone on three separate occasions. Following that victory, Starks was named MAC East Offensive Player of the Week.

It marked the first time that two Bulls' players were honored on The Sporting News teams.

12/12/2006