Kiwanuka is trying to be top defender in new conference

BOSTON (AP) Boston College&#39;s Mathias Kiwanuka (kee-wah-NOO&#39;-kuh) has already proved he is the best defensive player in the Big East.<br> <br> Now the Big East&#39;s defensive player of the year in 2004 gets the chance to prove he&#39;s the best in the A-C-C.<br> <br> The 6-foot-7 defensive end has been tabbed as the preseason defensive player of the year in the Atlantic Coast Conference in the Eagles first year in the league.<br> <br> Kiwanuka says it is a unique opportunity.<br> <br> Kiwanuka had 67 tackles, two interceptions and two pass breakups last year while also leading the Big East in sacks with eleven-and-a-half for the second consecutive year.<br> <br> He was projected by some to be a first-round pick in the N-F-L draft, but he decided to come back for his final year of eligibility.<br> <br> (Copyright 2005 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)