Notes: Cougars RB Harrison racking up recognition

Washington State running back Jerome Harrison has been named a first-team All-American by the Football Writers of America.

Harrison earlier had been named a first-teamer by SI.com, Rivals.com and ESPN.com.

He also has been named a second-team All-American by the America Football Coaches Association and Walter Camp Foundation. He was ninth in the Heisman Trophy voting and one of three finalists for the Doak Walker Award.

Harrison rushed for a school-record 1,900 yards. He leads DeAngelo Williams of Memphis (1,726) for the national rushing title, but Williams has a game remaining. Memphis will play Akron in the Motor City Bowl on Dec. 26.

Harrison was named WSU's offensive player of the year at the team banquet during the weekend.

Diederichs recommits

J.T. Diederichs, who committed to the Cougars in 2004, then wound up at Dixie State College in St. George, Utah, when he couldn't clear entrance requirements, has recommitted to WSU, according to Cougfan.com.

Diederichs helped Ballard High School reach the 4A state championship game in 2003. In 2004, he was a JC All-American, rushing for 1,740 yards. He battled injuries this season but had a 1,000-yard year and was MVP in the Rotary Bowl for the second straight time.

The Cougars also have a verbal commitment from Finas Rabb, a 6-foot-6, 205-pound receiver from Santa Ana (Calif.) Community College, according to Cougfan.com.

Note

• Other awards at the team banquet — Laurie Niemi Award (Cougar attitude): Troy Bienemann; Frank Butler Award (Cougar spirit): Marty Martin; Fred Bohler Award (Cougar inspiration): Will Derting; Leon Bender Award (defensive lineman of the year): Mkristo Bruce; Mike Utley Award (offensive lineman of the year): Nick Mihlhauser; Tim Petek Award (strongest player): Adam Braidwood; Ozzie Dire Award (scout team player of the year): Arkelon Hall; defensive MVP: Bruce.

Special teams awards — Assassin: Courtney Williams; Iron Man: Jed Collins; Game Breaker: Kyle Basler.

Craig Smith: 206-464-8279 or csmith@seattletimes.com