Ratke, Carter, Ross Named AFCA Coaches' All-Americans

12/22/2021 11:00:00 AM | Football

WACO, Texas – Three James Madison student-athletes were selected to the 2021 AFCA FCS Coaches' All-America Team in kicker Ethan Ratke, defensive lineman Bryce Carter and cornerback Greg Ross, the American Football Coaches Association announced Wednesday.

Ratke, one of the greatest kickers in college football history, wrapped up his career by setting with two national records in 2021. He reset the NCAA all-division records in career field goals (101) and scoring by a kicker (542). He completed the season going 29-of-32 on field goals and 63-of-64 on extra points for 150 points, which is tied for the second-most points in JMU single-season history. His 29 field goals also set JMU and CAA records while matching the FCS single-season record.

Carter was JMU's top pass rusher this season, as he led the team in tackles for loss and tied for the team lead in sacks. He accumulated 54 total tackles with 22 tackles for loss and 9.0 sacks while also producing seven quarterback hurries, three forced fumbles and one recovery. Carter ranked 12th nationally in tackles for loss and was also tied for fifth in the conference in total sacks.

Ross was tied for the JMU lead with four interceptions this past season. He also paced team in with 12 pass breakups and 16 passes defended. That included a career-high three breakups in the FCS quarterfinals. On the year, Ross tallied 30 total tackles. Ross ranked second in the conference in total passed defended and tied for third in both interceptions and breakups.

It's the second straight AFCA honor for Ratke, and he's one of nine players to repeat as AFCA FCS All-Americans.

JMU All-Americans in 2021
Ethan Ratke – Stats Perform (1st), FCS ADA, AFCA (1st), Associated Press (1st), HERO Sports (1st), Athlon Sports
Kyle Davis – Stats Perform (1st), HERO Sports (1st), Athlon Sports
Cole Johnson – Stats Perform (2nd), Associated Press (3rd), HERO Sports (2nd)
Antwane Wells Jr. – Stats Perform (2nd), HERO Sports (2nd, Freshman)
Bryce Carter – Stats Perform (2nd), AFCA (2nd), Associated Press (2nd)
Diamonte Tucker-Dorsey – Stats Perform (3rd), HERO Sports (2nd)
Greg Ross – AFCA (2nd), Associated Press (3rd), HERO Sports (3rd)
Mike Greene –HERO Sports (1st)
Liam Fornadel – HERO Sports (2nd)
Nick Kidwell – HERO Sports (Sophomore)
Solomon Vanhorse – HERO Sports (Sophomore)