Thursday, November 7, 2013
by The Sports Network

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Mercer quarterback John Russ and Central Arkansas wide receiver/kick returner Jatavious Wilson were added to the Jerry Rice Award Watch List, Thursday.

The Rice Award, now in its third season, honors the top first-year player in the FCS, whether a true freshman or a redshirt freshman.

Russ, a 6-foot, 192-pound redshirt freshman, has embraced the opportunity to help start Mercer's new program, which is competing in the Pioneer Football League this season. Through the Bears' 8-1 start, Russ has completed 92-of-177 pass attempts for 1,484 yards and 16 touchdowns with three interceptions. He also has rushed for 587 yards and eight touchdowns.

Wilson, a 5-9, 171-pound true freshman, has been multi-dimensional for Central Arkansas out of the Southland Conference. He has caught 35 passes for 380 yards and two touchdowns, and averaged 35.5 yards on kickoff returns (which ranks second in the FCS) while returning a pair for touchdowns. He also recently broke an 80-yard rush against Stephen F. Austin.

The Jerry Rice Award, named for the legendary wide receiver who played in the FCS (then Division I-AA) at Mississippi Valley State, can undergo revision during the season.

The winner will be announced at The Sports Network FCS Awards Presentation Dec. 16 in Philadelphia.