Georgia State outside linebacker Jake Muasau has been named to the College Football Performance Awards FCS Preseason Watch List.

The senior from Sierra Vista, Ariz., is the Panthers' top returning defender. He was voted Most Valuable Defensive Player and Outstanding Outside Linebacker for GSU's inaugural season as he led the team in tackles for loss with 8.5, including four sacks. Muasau, 6-1 and 243 pounds, also contributed four forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, three pass breakups and an interception. He was credited with 28 solo tackles and 22 assists for a total of 50 hits.

During the season, he was an honorable mention selection as national Linebacker of the Week by the CFPA after a remarkable performance against Lambuth with six solo tackles, four tackles for loss, including three sacks, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and an interception.

Muasau and the Panthers open the 2011 season by hosting Clark Atlanta on Friday, Sept. 2 at the Georgia Dome. Georgia State looks to build on its inaugural season in which the Panthers earned a winning record at 6-5.

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