SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Citadel Football program was predicted to finish tied for sixth in the Southern Conference by the league's coaches as the 2009 SoCon Preseason Poll and All-Conference Teams. The Bulldogs received six selections to the All-SoCon Preseason Teams, with Andre Roberts being named preseason first team for both wide receiver and return specialist.

The Citadel, hoping to improve on a 4-8 mark last year, was predicted to finish tied for sixth after receiving the same number of votes – 26 – as Samford.

Appalachian State, winners of four consecutive SoCon crowns including a shared title with Wofford in 2007, received eight first-place votes in the balloting, the maximum number allowed as coaches were not allowed to vote for their own team. The Mountaineers return 18 starters this season, including seven on offense and 9-of-11 on defense.

Meanwhile, Roberts and Terrence Reese both received preseason first team honors for The Citadel. Reese was named as a defensive lineman while Roberts was honored for both his abilities at wide receiver and as a kick return specialist.

Three Bulldogs were named to the preseason second team with Daniel DeHaven leading the way on the offensive line. Fellow offensive lineman Thomas Suggs was also honored while Cortez Allen received second team honors at defensive back.

The Citadel opens the season Sept. 5 at North Carolina with that game slated for a 6 p.m. kickoff.

For complete coverage of Bulldog Football, please visit the official home of The Citadel Athletics at CitadelSports.com.