If there was an award for the best two-way football player in the state this season, Zac Epping would be one of the finalists.

The Wisconsin Football Coaches Association solidified that as the Tremper senior lineman earned first-team All-State honors on both sides of the ball, the organization announced on Friday.

The 6-foot-3, 290-pound Epping was one of 12 offensive linemen and one of six defensive linemen to earn first-team honors. He was the leading vote-getter among offensive linemen.

Edgar quarterback/defensive back Justin Sinz and Big Foot running back/defensive back Michael Walker were the only other players to be named to the first team on offense and defense.

“It’s pretty impressive,” Tremper coach Frank Matrise Jr. said about the Southeast Conference Defensive Player of the Year and University of Minnesota recruit. “He’s had such a great year. I’m so happy for him. He accomplished a lot of great things. I’m really proud of what he has done.

“His best football is ahead of him at the University of Minnesota. I think they’re getting a really good player and a really classy person. He’s definitely someone we’re going to miss.”

Mitchell Ziegler

Bradford senior Mitchell Ziegler was one of three tight ends to pick up first-team honors.

“Mitchell doesn’t get many touches playing tight end in our option offense,” Bradford coach Jed Kennedy said during the season, “but he is our best blocker and one of the best in the state at his position.”

Brad Slomkowski

Bradford senior Brad Slomkowski was one of five outside linebackers named to the first team.

“Brad is definitely a great leader,” Kennedy said near the end of the season. “He’s played the most consistent. He’s had a hell of a year for us. He lets his actions do his talking.”

DeBartolo, Gordon

Bradford juniors Gino DeBartolo and Melvin Gordon were both named honorable mention All-State. DeBartolo was one of six quarterbacks, while Gordon was one of 15 running backs selected.

Sinz and Racine Lutheran running back Eric Oertel were picked as the Offensive Players of the Year and Marquette safety Michael Trotter and Kimberly lineman Mike Hardy were picked as the Defensive Players of the Year.