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Utah Blaze lineman Mike Lewis isn't afraid to be the first to let the trash talk flowing. But as he's proven this year, he'll do his best to back it up.
The Arena Football League recognized Lewis' prowess on the gridiron, naming the three-year veteran to its First team All-Arena defensive unit in a statement released Wednesday afternoon.
Lewis was among the fiercest pass rushers in the league this season, piling up a franchise-record 12.5 sacks, good for third-best in the league. He also recorded 13 tackles for a loss.
It was Lewis's second straight season honor after making the second team last season.
The Blaze defensive line was a high point for most of the regular season, adopting the nickname "Sack City" after a 10-sack game against the Iowa Barnstormers.
The Blaze's starting lineup of Lewis, Caesar Rayford and Keenan Mace proved to be troublesome for opponents, as the trio helped lead the team to 33 sacks for the year.