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Filani, Ramirez Named to Big 12 First Team

The Sporting News tabs several Red Raiders to preseason squads.

Athletics

Joel Filani catching a pass against Indiana State University 2005 Texas Tech wide receiver Joel Filani

Texas Tech wide receiver Joel Filani and offensive guard Manuel Ramirez have been named to The Sporting News All-Big 12 preseason first team. The honor is the second preseason accolade for Filani, who was selected to the Playboy Preseason All-America Team in April.

Filani led the Big 12 Conference in 2005 with 87.3 yards per game and became the fifth player in school history to record more than 1,000 receiving yards with 1,048 on 65 receptions. He totaled eight touchdowns on the season and averaged 16.1 yards per catch.

Since cracking the starting lineup as a freshman, Ramirez has been a dominating force in the trenches for the Red Raider offensive machine. With a bench press of 550+, Ramirez’s upper body strength, along with his quickness, have established him as one of the top linemen in school history. His efforts have assisted in the offense generating the nation’s top passing game each of the past four seasons and recording 25 rushing touchdowns last year, the highest total in 10 seasons.

Linebacker Fletcher Session and placekicker Alex Trlica were named to the second team. Session finished second on the team in tackles after picking up his first start of the 2005 season four games in. Trlica turned in one of the best single-season performances in school history last season for a kicker as he set school records in career conversions made (115) and attempted (115). He currently ranks among the top ten in NCAA history with the most extra point attempts without a miss.

Additionally, the publication ranks Filani No. 12 among the nation’s wide receivers, while Ramirez is the No. 15 guard and Trlica the No. 16 kicker. Although a starter hasn’t been named at quarterback, The Sporting News listed Graham Harrell as the Offensive Newcomer of the Year.

Related Links

Texas Tech Football

2006 Schedule