UT's Berry a unanimous preseason All-SEC choice

University of Tennessee defensive back Eric Berry was one of three unanimous selections – the only one on defense – among the preseason All-Southeastern Conference team as selected by the coaches.

Berry, a junior out of Fairburn, Ga., also was the only Volunteer to earn first-team honors. Offensive linemen Chris Scott and Josh McNeil, defensive lineman Dan Williams and linebacker Rico McCoy all earned second-team recognition.

Vanderbilt did not land any players on the first team, but three Commodores – senior linebacker Patrick Benoist, senior cornerback Myron Lewis and senior punter Brett Upson – were named to the second team. Senior safety Ryan Hamilton and sophomore linebacker Chris Marve were named to the third team.

A year ago, only two VU players earned preseason All-SEC recognition by the coaches.

“It's great for these players and good for our program. Each one of them is coming off a tremendous year,” coach Bobby Johnson said in a release. “I think it’s more of an indication that we are upgrading our roster and producing outstanding players in this conference.

“While I'm pleased for these individuals, other players on this team … are definitely worthy of consideration.”