MOUNT PLEASANT - Central Michigan sophomomore receiver/returner Antonio Brown has been named a first team All-American as a punt returner by CollegeFootballNews.com.

Brown led the Football Bowl Subdivision (formerly Division I-A) in punt return yardage in 2008, averaging 20.5 yards on 20 returns. Five of his returns covered at least 36 yards, including a 75-yard return for the go-ahead touchdown in a 31-28 win at Ohio on Sept. 13.

Brown was named the 2008 Mid-American Conference Special Teams Player of the Year, and he was an All-MAC first team selection as a punt returner, kickoff returner and receiver. Brown averaged 20.8 yards per kickoff return in 2008. He also led the Chippewas in receptions (93), receiving yards (998) and touchdown receptions (seven).

Brown ranked fourth nationally in all-purpose yardage (178.1 ypg) and 14th in receptions (7.1 rpg) in 2008.

CMU finished the season 8-5 overall. The Chippewas made their third consecutive appearance in the Motor City Bowl, becoming just the fourth team in MAC history to compete in a bowl game three straight seasons.