Eric Decker made a big impact in the little time he had to play this season.
Decker, the Gophers receiver whose senior season -- and college career -- ended with a foot injury in the first half of Minnesota's game at Ohio State Oct. 24, was named by the coaches to the all-Big Ten Conference first team, which was announced Monday night.
Decker had 50 receptions for 758 yards and five touchdowns in eight games this season and he ended his career with 227 catches for 3,119 yards and 24 TDs. His receptions total and receiving yards are Gophers career records.
Decker, who was honorable mention in the media voting, was also given a conference sportsmanship award by the coaches.
No Gophers were named second team by either the coaches or the media.
Linebackers Lee Campbell and Simoni Lawrence and cornerback Traye Simmons were all named honorable mention by the coaches.
Campbell, Decker, kicker Eric Ellestad, tight end Nick Tow-Arnett and Simmons were named honorable mention by the media.
One other item: Kicker Kip Smith, who had announced his intention to play for the Gophers, has now committed to UCLA.
