Ryan named first-team All-Big East lineman

University of Connecticut junior offensive tackle Mike Ryan was named to the All-Big East First Team that was announced earlier this week.

Ryan, a Marian High School graduate, is a two-year starter for the Huskies. He started the team's first 11 games this season before a leg injury sidelined him for UConn's final game of the regular season against South Florida.

Ryan's was one of six Huskies to make the first team. That group included Big East Offensive Player of the Year Jordan Todman. Ryan played a huge role in Todman's success, paving the way for the junior running back to finish second nationally in rushing, averaging 143.1 yards per game.

This season, the Huskies earned their second Big East title in four years and received the school's first-ever BCS bowl berth. They will face Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl on New Year's Day.