Staff Reports
Linebacker Matt McFadden and wide receiver Ty Fryfogle on Monday were named to The Associated Press’ All-American team for Indiana University.
McFadden, a junior, and Fryfogle, a senior, were selected for the third team. Both of them had already received Big Ten honors for the 6-1 Hoosiers, who meet the University of Mississippi in the Outback Bowl in Tampa, Florida, on Saturday afternoon.
“So honored,” said McFadden, who gave thanks to his coaches, teammates and family.
The players learned of the recognition as they returned to team practice for the first time in a couple of weeks after being sidelined because of the coronavirus. The virus forced the cancellation of IU’s annual traditional game against in-state rival Purdue.
Although the full team is expected to be able to travel to Florida and compete, coach Tom Allen said “the majority,” but not all of the Hoosiers, participated in workouts Monday.
McFadden leads IU with 52 tackles and with 8.5 tackles for losses. He also has two interceptions.
Frygogle, who is from Lucedale, Mississippi and grew up an Ole Miss fan and likely would have attended that school if not recruited by the Hoosiers, said he has a cousin on the opposing team, as well as other friends.
“I wouldn’t say I’m shocked,” Fryfogle said of being chosen as an All-American. “Over the last four years I’ve worked. I’ve elevated myself.”
Entering the final game of the season, Fryfogle has 34 catches for 687 yards, 7 touchdowns and averages 20.2 yards per reception. He was selected as the Big Ten’s Richter-Howard Receiver of the Year and is a semi-finalist for the Bilentnikoff Award.
Allen said he is “excited for them,” and that McFadden’s and Fryfogle’s honors are symbolic of the Hoosiers’ achievements as a whole this season.
McFadden has seen games at the site of the bowl, though not played on the field. He estimates since spectator rules will be more relaxed for the bowl about 45 friends and relatives will attend after their not seeing him play in person.
He will return home as an All-American.
“I’m not going to say I really expected it,” McFadden said. “I’m really excited that it came. It means a lot to play in front of a lot of people. It will be exciting.”