Charlie Gantt Named John Mackey Tight End of the Week

 His fourth-quarter touchdown reception proved to be the game winner at Penn State, as MSU claimed a share of its first Big Ten title in 20 years.  EAST

 

His fourth-quarter touchdown reception proved to be the game winner at Penn State, as MSU claimed a share of its first Big Ten title in 20 years.

 

EAST LANSING, Mich. – Michigan State fifth-year senior Charlie Gantt, who had four receptions for 38 yards including a fourth-quarter touchdown grab in the 2010 regular-season finale at Penn State, has been named John Mackey Tight End of the Week, as selected by the Nassau County (N.Y.) Sports Commission.

 

Gantt’s four catches matched his career high and all resulted in either a first down or a score against the Nittany Lions. His 3-yard TD grab from wide receiver Keith Nichol on a third-and-goal play with 8:31 left proved to be the game winner as MSU claimed a share of its first Big Ten Championship since 1990 with a 28-22 victory over Penn State. It also marked the Spartans’ first win in State College since 1965 – the year before Joe Paterno took over as Penn State’s head coach.

 

“Charlie Gantt once again played at a high level in the regular-season finale at Penn State,” MSU tight ends/tackles coach Mark Staten said. “Whether we had him blocking on the line, in motion, pulling or catching the ball, Charlie again showcased his talents as a complete tight end. He truly has the entire package.”

 

The 6-foot-5, 260-pound Gantt, who ranks fourth on the team with 22 receptions for 261 yards (11.9 avg.) and three TDs, earned second-team All-Big Ten honors from the media. His 22 catches also match his career high (2009: 22 for 348 yards).

 

Gantt, a three-year starter from Farmington Hills, Mich., has 63 career receptions for 911 yards (14.5 avg.) and nine TDs.