Jordan Ridley Named First Team All-PFL

Butler sophomore Jordan Ridley was named first team and 10 other Bulldogs earned second team or honorable mention recognition on the 2010 All-Pioneer Football League Team, released by the league office.  The All-PFL team was chosen by a vote of league coaches.

Ridley, who helped Butler lead the league in total defense and pass defense, topped the PFL and ranked in the “Top 10” in the NCAA Division I FCS in tackles with 130 (11.8 pg).  He had 10 or more tackles in nine of Butler’s 11 games, including a league-high 17 tackles against Youngstown State.  He led the Bulldogs in both solo tackles (55) and assists (75), tied for the team lead in pass interceptions (2) and finished second on the squad in tackles for loss (9.5).

The Bulldogs, who finished with a 4-7 record, had five players earn second team All-PFL recognition.  Leading that group was junior wide receiver Zach Watkins, who tied for second in the league in pass receptions (68).  He was joined on the honor squad by senior offensive tackle Mike Staniewicz, junior defensive lineman Ross Teare, senior defensive back Tadd Dombart and sophomore punter Michael Wilson.

Butler players earning honorable mention on the All-PFL squad were sophomore tight end Carter Walley, senior running back Scott Gray, junior offensive lineman Pete Mattingly, junior linebacker Nick Caldicott and junior placekicker David Lang.

Watkins and Gray both were first team All-PFL players in 2009, while Caldicott and Staniewicz were second team All-League picks a year ago.  Wilson earned honorable mention All-PFL recognition in 2009.

Dayton quarterback Steve Valentino was selected as the league’s Offensive Player of the Year, while Drake defensive lineman Dain Taylor was chosen PFL Defensive Player of the Year.  Dayton head coach Rick Chamberlin was tabbed as the league’s Coach of the Year.