Thhree chosen Mackey finalists

MANHASSET, N.Y., Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Kris Wilson of Pittsburgh Friday was named one of three candidates for the John Mackey Award as the nation's top tight end.

Wilson, who has had an outstanding season playing in the shadow of Heisman Trophy candidate Larry Fitzgerald, is joined by Kellen Winslow of Miami and Ben Troupe of Florida. He has caught 38 passes for 544 yards and eight touchdowns, all second on the Panthers behind Fitzgerald.

Winslow has caught 53 passes for 537 yards and one touchdown, including a crucial fourth-down reception that led to the game-winning score against West Virginia.

Troupe has 35 catches for 517 yards. His 14.7 yards per reception is tops among the three finalists.

The winner will be announced Dec. 9.