LINCOLN, Neb. - The Omaha World-Herald announced its 2024 NAIA/NCAA D-III All-Midlands Team on Sunday (Dec. 29), and Nebraska Wesleyan Football earned recognition with two primary team selections and four honorable mentions. Senior wide receiver Cole Siems and junior offensive lineman Owen Anthony represented NWU on the prestigious primary team, while Sam Contreras, Hunter Hanke, Jake Rhodes, and Kevin Starnes received honorable mention accolades.
The annual All-Midlands Team highlights the best small college football players in Nebraska, recognizing those who stood out during the 2024 season. The Prairie Wolves' six honorees reflect the program's growth under Head Coach Brian Keller.
2024 Nebraska Wesleyan All-Midlands Team Honorees
Cole Siems, WR
2024 – 60 receptions, 628 yards, 2 touchdowns; Honorable Mention All-Conference.
Siems capped off a stellar senior campaign with nearly 700 receiving yards and two touchdowns, emerging as one of the top wideouts in the state. His ability to make contested catches and break open big plays was critical to the Prairie Wolves' offense.
Owen Anthony, OL
2024 – Started all 10 games at guard; led an offensive line that allowed only 13 sacks and paved the way for 1,151 rushing yards; First Team All-Conference, D3football.com Second Team All-Region.
Anthony anchored the offensive line with a combination of skill and leadership. His consistency and physicality helped Nebraska Wesleyan control the trenches all season long.
Honorable Mention Selections
Sam Contreras, OL
2024 – Started all 10 games at long snapper; Second Team All-Conference
Hunter Hanke, DE
2024 – 42 tackles, 1 pass breakups, 1 interception, 2 forced fumbles; Second Team All-Conference
Jake Rhodes, OG
2024 – Started 10 games at guard; led an offensive line that allowed only 13 sacks and paved the way for 1,151 rushing yards; Honorable Mention All-Conference
Kevin Starnes, TE
2024 – 15 catches, 131 yards receiving, 3 receiving touchdowns, 197 yards rushing, 5 rushing touchdowns; Honorable Mention All-Conference
The Prairie Wolves wrapped up the 2024 season with a 3-7 record.
