LORMAN — HBCU Gameday released its top-five running backs heading into the 2019 season, and Alcorn State senior running back De’Shawn Waller was at the top of the list.

The Atlanta native is a Preseason All-America Third-Team selection. It came after he earned a spot on the 2018 STATS FCS All-America Third-Team, SWAC All-Conference First-Team and was the SWAC Newcomer of the Year.

Waller rushed for 1,215 yards and 12 touchdowns on the year. He finished eighth in the nation in rushing yards per game (121.5 ypg), 15th in total rushing yards, 19th in all-purpose yards per game (133.0), 19th in rushing yards per carry (6.5), 20th in rushing TD’s, 23rd in scoring (7.8 pg) and 25th in total touchdowns (13).

Waller rushed for at least 100 yards in seven of the last eight games including the SWAC Championship, where he tallied a game-high 177 yards and three touchdowns.

“This time last year few people knew who De’Shawn Waller was. Now, he’s looking to stay on as the SWAC’s top back,” HBCU Gameday wrote.