Senior offensive lineman Will Hernandez has been named to the All-Conference USA first team and freshman defensive lineman Trace Mascorro has been named to the All-Conference USA freshman team, the league announced on Tuesday.

Hernandez is the first Miner to receive consecutive all-conference first team honors since Quintin Demps (2006 & 2007). The Las Vegas, Nev., native is also the first UTEP offensive lineman to receive back-to-back first team recognition.

The All-American started in all 49 games played during his career at the left guard position. Hernandez was named to the 2017 AP Midseason All-America team and 2017 Outland Trophy Watch List. He also earned an invitation to the 2018 Reese’s Senior Bowl. The captain was appointed UTEP Offensive Player of the Year voted by the team.

Under his guidance the Miners allowed zero sacks against WKU and UTSA and only allowed one sack at no. 7 Oklahoma and at C-USA West Division Champions North Texas.

Mascorro made 11 starts in 12 games as a true freshman. The Refugio, Texas, native recorded 29 tackles (11 solo) with 4.0 tackles for loss and a pair of quarterback hurries. He posted his first score, a 26-yard touchdown, on a fumble recovery at rival NM State.

Mascorro recorded a season-high five tackles and a tackle for loss against WKU. The freshman opened his collegiate career with a start at no. 7 Oklahoma, notching two tackles.