Appalachian State football coach Jerry Moore, center, listens to a question from a reporter as Southern Conference football coaches and players gathered in Greenville, S.C. on Wednesday, July 23, 2008 during the SoCon Football Rouser. (AP Photo/The Greenville News, Owen Riley Jr) **NO SALES**

Associated Press

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Three-time defending national champion Appalachian State is the preseason pick to win the Southern Conference title.

Quarterback Armanti Edwards and linebacker Pierre Banks of the Mountaineers were voted offensive and defensive preseason player by the league's coaches on Wednesday.

Appalachian received eight of nine first-place votes. Coaches weren't allowed to vote for their own teams, so Appalachian's Jerry Moore picked Elon to win the crown. The Phoenix return 21 starters and were picked to finish second overall.

Wofford was picked third, followed by Georgia Southern, Furman, The Citadel, Chattanooga, Western Carolina and league newcomer Samford.

Edwards accounted for 38 touchdowns last season. Banks had 108 tackles.

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