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September 10, 1998

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — University of Virginia safety Anthony Poindexter is one of 44 candidates for the 1998 Jim Thorpe Award as the nation’s best defensive back. The list was compiled through a survey of All-American picks and “watch lists” contained in preseason publications including Athlon, Lindy’s, Bob Griese’s Yearbook, Street & Smith’s, Sport, Preview Sports, The Sporting News and the Football Writers Association of America.

A preseason All-American, Poindexter has been a first-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference selection the last two seasons. He finished second among ACC defensive backs in tackles last season with 78. Poindexter also led the team, and was tied for third in the ACC, with four interceptions in 1997.

He started this season by recording eight tackles in the Cavaliers’ 19-0 season-opening win at #25 Auburn on September 3. His interception of an Auburn pass in the second quarter set up Virginia’s first touchown drive. He also broke up a pass in the end zone as Virginia held the homestanding Tigers to 18 net yards rushing and 179 yards of total offense.

Poindexter now has 10 career interceptions, tied for 12th on UVa’s all-time list.

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