(Dec. 15, 2000) — Derek Smith Named to Birmingham News All-SEC — Tight end Derek Smith has been named to the All-Southeastern Conference team chosen by the Birmingham News.

Smith is the consensus All-SEC tight end, having been named first-team All-SEC by every selector — SEC Coaches, The Associated Press, The Sporting News, Football News magazine, Collegiate Sports Southeast cable TV network and by the CollegeFootballNews.com and Rivals.com internet sites.

Smith led the Wildcats in pass receiving this season with 50 receptions for 716 yards and five touchdowns. He also caught a pair of two-point conversions. He was a semifinalist for the John Mackey Award, which goes to the nation’s best tight end. Three of his best games came against nationally ranked teams eight catches for 76 yards and two touchdowns in “The Swamp” at Florida; five for 108 yards against Georgia; and six for 102 yards vs. Mississippi State.

Players at Home — The Wildcats completed exams on Dec. 15 and have gone home for the holiday break. The players will be working out on their own during the holidays. Classes resume on Wed. Jan. 10.