:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/5804025/20120915_lbm_aw5_196.0.jpg)
Sometimes it's better just to have the respect of those in the locker room, and for Jamea Thomas and Robbie Godhigh, that's exactly what they got.
Thomas and Godhigh were named top offensive and defensive players for the season by 15 Georgia Tech players that voted for the awards. Godhigh shared the award with offensive guard Omoregie Uzzi.
Thomas won in a landslide for top defensive player, even though he didn't receive any votes from coaches or media when they made their picks for the All-ACC teams. Thomas, a safety, finished second on the team in tackles with 82 and interceptions with four. He tied with teammate Rod Sweeting for first on the team in pass breakups with five. Thomas proved to be very versatile in the defensive backfield, playing both corner and safety at times this season.
Godhigh was a multi-purpose running back known for his pass-blocking and big play ability. The former walk-on had all the respect of his teammates, especially since he garnered the same amount of votes as Uzzi, who was named first-team All-ACC for the second straight year, is a three-year starter and a team captain.