June 3, 2008

AUBURN - Auburn is ranked eighth in the country and picked to win the Southeastern Conference Western Division according to preseason rankings by Athlon Sports. Also, seven players are recognized with preseason honors.

Kicker Wes Byrum is named First-Team All-SEC by the publication, while running back Ben Tate, offensive lineman Tyronne Green, defensive lineman Antonio Coleman and punter Ryan Shoemaker are named Second-Team All-SEC.

Defensive lineman Sen'Derrick Marks, and cornerback Jerraud Powers join the All-SEC Third Team.

Athlon Sports' preseason magazine is on newsstands now, including a Southeastern regional edition cover featuring Ben Tate. Athlon's entire selection of regional editions and team-specific covers are available for pre-order at www.athlonsports.com/store.