Paul Smith Shares Offensive Player Of C-USA honor

Thursday, November 29th 2007, 7:38 am

By: News On 6

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (AP) - Southern Mississippi linebacker Gerald McRath has been named Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year in voting by media members who cover the conference.

McRath, a sophomore, is second in the league in tackles (131), including 65 solo tackles. He has 10 tackles for loss, 4-1/2 sacks and one forced fumble.

McRath had a career-high 21 tackles in a 34-17 loss to Central Florida. He had six other games with at least 10 tackles.

Central Florida running back Kevin Smith and Tulsa quarterback Paul Smith shared the Offensive Player of the Year award. East Carolina's Chris Johnson (special teams), Houston quarterback Case Keenum (top freshman) and Tulsa wide receiver Brennan Marion (newcomer) were also honored.

George O'Leary, who will coach Central Florida against Tulsa in Saturday's C-USA title game, was named Coach of the Year.