PFF Names WVU’s Tykee Smith a First-Team All-American

West Virginia defensive back Tykee Smith might have been snubbed from the All-Big 12 teams, but the sophomore is finally getting some love on the Pro Football Focus All-Americans list.

PFF named Smith a first-team All-American at “Flex D”, given his hybrid role in WVU’s defensive scheme. This is what PFF had to say about the sophomore:

“Smith has been one of the best slot defenders in college football this year while serving as the “spear” in the West Virginia defense. The West Virginia defensive back ranks first in PFF coverage grade among all FBS defensive backs with at least 100 snaps in the slot.

“Smith saw at least three targets in all nine of his starts, yet he managed to allow under 30 yards in every one of his games this year.”

Smith, a Philadelphia native, has started every game this season at nickel cornerback, called spear in WVU’s defense. WVU coach Neal Brown has said that Smith is one of the best players in the country at his position and is deserving of All-American consideration following the season.

Smith is tied for second on the Mountaineers with 61 total tackles to go along with eight tackles for loss, two interceptions and five pass breakups. Smith was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week after a nine-tackle performance, one interception performance against TCU.

PFF also named WVU junior Dante Stills an honorable mention at interior defensive line. A native of Fairmont, Stills finished the 2020 regular-season with 31 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss and two sacks. He was named an All-Big 12 honorable mention as well. Sills announced last week that he will be returning to WVU next season.