Western Kentucky redshirt junior wide receiver Dalvin Smith runs after a catch during the Hilltoppers’ 28-23 win over Sam Houston on Nov. 18 at Houchens-Smith Stadium.

Western Kentucky’s football team had 12 players recognized on Phil Steele’s 2024 Preseason All-Conference USA Team, the publication has announced.

Wide receiver Dalvin Smith, offensive lineman Quantavious Leslie, defensive tackle Hosea Wheeler and cornerback Anthony Johnson, Jr. highlighted WKU’s selections as First Team members.

Joining Smith and Leslie on Phil Steele’s Preseason All-CUSA Team offensively were two Second Team selections in quarterback TJ Finley and running back Elijah Young, a Third Team selection in offensive lineman Marshall Jackson and a Fourth Team selection in tight end River Helms.

Defensive tackle Jayden Loving was named to Phil Steele’s Second Team, while linebacker Kylan Guidry, linebacker Anthony Brackenridge and cornerback Upton Stout were Third Team selections.

WKU is scheduled to kick off the 2024 season with a 6 p.m. CT game at Alabama on Aug. 31. The Hilltoppers will host Eastern Kentucky for their home opener on Sept. 7 at 6 p.m. CT, and will open CUSA play the following week with a 6 p.m. CT game at Middle Tennessee on Sept. 14.