BRUNSWICK, Ga. -- Southernpigskin.com released its All-Southern Conference team and redshirt-freshman Brent Russell (Comer, Ga.) was named the website's Defensive Rookie of the Year. Russell also earned a spot on the 28-man team at defensive tackle. The All-SoCon list included 12 players each on offense and defense as well as four players recognized on special teams.

Russell's performances in 2009 for Georgia Southern made him a first-team All-SoCon selection by the Socon Sports Media Association and a second-team pick by the league's coaches. He registered 6.0 sacks, good for a tie for 53^rd place nationally and was the second-highest ranked freshman in that category. Russell posted 48 tackles and three blocked kicks and forced a fumble. He also had one interception.

From Comer, Ga., Russell was named the 2009 FCS Freshman of the Year by the College Sporting News on Tuesday (December 29).