PROVO -- Junior defensive end John Denney has been named to the CoSIDA Academic All-District VIII team, along with teammates Toby Christensen, Justin Jory and Scott Jackson, who were selected as academic all-district second-team members.
Denney, a junior defensive lineman from Thornton, Colo., currently holds a 3.39 GPA as a business management major. He is tied for the team lead in interceptions with two and is fourth on the team in sacks with 3.5. Denney has recorded 37 tackles on the season, including six for a loss.
Christensen, who is in his first year of a Master's program in public administration, graduated last year with a degree in communications with a 3.74 GPA. He is first on the team in receptions (51) and yards (521). He has also caught four touchdown passes on the year.
Jory has also earned his Bachelor's degree in philosophy, and is in his first year of law school. He has been a key reserve for the Cougars this year at tight end. Jory has caught 17 passes on the year for 213 yards and one touchdown. Jory will make his second consecutive start this season, earning the starting nod against Utah.
Jackson, a two-year starter at center, currently has a 3.58 GPA in international business. He has been able to provide senior leadership on an offensive line which includes two freshmen.
The team was voted on by CoSIDA members from District VIII, which includes the states of Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah and Washington, and the province of British Columbia.
The all-district first team selections advance to the national ballot, which will be released Dec. 1.