Purdue football freshman Dillon Thieneman named AP All-American

Dillon Thieneman was often alone in Purdue's defensive backfield as the last line between opponents and a touchdown.

The Westfield High School alumnus safety excelled most of his freshman season, earning multiple postseason honors.

He was named a third-team All-American by the Associated Press after leading all freshmen nationally in interceptions (6), tackles (106), solo tackles (74) and forced fumbles (2). He's Purdue's first AP All-America defensive back since Rod Woodson (1986).

Other recent AP All-Americans from Purdue include Rondale Moore (2018), David Bell ('21), George Karlaftis ('21) and Charlie Jones ('22).

Thieneman was also the Big Ten Freshman of the Year and a second-team (coaches) and third-team (media) All-Big Ten performer.

Other honors include: Freshman first-team All-American from The Athletic, USA TODAY Big Ten newcomer of the year, and a five-time Big Ten freshman of the week.