After transferring to SMU in 2006, linebacker Chase Kennemer saw action primarily on special teams for two seasons, until late 2008 when he got the start at UTEP in place of a suspended Mustang. Kennemer responded with a block punt and an 11-tackle effort against the Miners and has never looked back.

Kennemer was voted a captain this season by his teammates and has tallied a team-best 93 stops with 9.5 for-loss in 2009, while adding a sack, two interceptions, two pass break-ups and four fumble recoveries. Against Houston, he notched 12 stops and now has six 10-plus-tackle games in 2009. He ranks 15th nationally in tackles, averaging 10.33 stops a game.

Its been an amazing season for the Arlington native who suffered a lower back injury and needed second and third opinions to allow him to continue his career while in high school. Doctors had been concerned his injury was such that he would have lifelong back pain if he continued to play.