Carbondale Reporter

Five Southern Illinois University football players have been recognized by the Missouri Valley Football Conference (MVFC) for their performances this season. Linebacker Ben Bogle and safety Ubayd Steed were selected for the All-MVFC Second Team, while safety Iverson Brown, center Chase Evans, and wide receiver Keontez Lewis received honorable mentions. Additionally, Lewis was named to the Valley's All-Newcomer team.

Bogle, a sophomore from Ponte Vedra, Florida, emerged as a standout with 16.5 tackles for loss, leading all linebackers in the MVFC. He recorded 87 tackles, 5.5 sacks, two interceptions, two pass breakups, three quarterback hurries, and one fumble recovery. Bogle was recently named one of 35 finalists for the Buck Buchanan Award.

Steed led Southern Illinois University (SIU) with 95 tackles and finished third in the conference among defensive backs. The senior from Philadelphia started all 12 games this season and has started 25 consecutive games over the past two seasons. He also contributed to three turnovers with two forced fumbles and an interception.

Brown played all 12 games last season and ranked third on his team with 76 tackles and had two interceptions. The Belleville, Illinois native was prominent in pass breakups within the MVFC.

Evans distinguished himself as SIU’s top-graded blocker in efficiency last season with no sacks allowed. Hailing from Mason, Ohio, he made all starts at center during his college career and earned MVFC Offensive Lineman of the Week honors twice.

Lewis transferred from Wisconsin and became notable in various receiving statistics despite missing some games due to injury. From East St. Louis, Illinois, he accumulated significant yardage both as a receiver and runner during his time on the field.