BIRMINGHAM - The Southwestern Athletic Conference announced the 2012 Preseason All-Conference football team on Monday at the annual Media Day event at the Birmingham  Marriott.

Grambling State running back Dawarence Roberts was chosen as the preseason Offensive Player of the Year, while Jackson State defensive lineman Joseph LeBeau was tabbed preseason Defensive Player of the Year.

Roberts rushed for 1,102 yards in 2011, averaging 5.5 yards per carry. He scored eight touchdowns and averaged 110.2 yards per game. Meanwhile, Lebeau was ranked in the top 10 in the SWAC in tackles last season with 75, He led the conference in tackles for loss and fourth in FCS with  24.5. He was also 2nd in FSC in Sacks: with 16. In addition to his SWAC preseason laurels, Lebeau is a BSN 2012 Preseason 1st Team All-American, CFPA preseason watch list, In 2011, he was named SWAC Newcomer of the Year.

The preseason All-SWAC teams were selected by the league coaches, Sports Information Directors and selected members of the media.