Sports Zone 12.16.23: SIU’s Jules, SEMO’s Hess named FCS All-Americans

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) – Southern Illinois University fifth-year senior safety PJ Jules and Southeast Missouri State sixth-year senior running back Geno Hess were recognized nationally for their spectacular seasons.

Jules earned AP 1st Team All-American honors for an SIU team that reached the round of 16 in the FCS playoffs after winning the first playoff game in Saluki Stadium history.

Jules was among the nation’s leaders with 109 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, and 11 pass breakups. He was the leader of a defensive unit that ranked in the top five nationally in several defensive categories. Jules will also be participating the Hula Bowl all-star game on January 13 at the University of Central Florida.

Hess was tabbed an FCS Football Central 3rd Team All-American in his sixth and final season as a Redhawk.

Hess eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards for the third straight season and reached in the end zone 10 times. He rushed for at least 100 yards in five of the final seven games of the season, and he finished just 30 yards shy of becoming the Ohio Valley Conference’s all-time leading rusher.