Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert wins Mackey Award

BETHPAGE, N.Y. (AP) Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert has won the John Mackey Award that goes to college football's best tight end.

Coming into the season, Eifert was regarded as the best receiver for the Fighting Irish and drew extra attention from opposing defenses. Nonetheless, Eifert had 44 receptions for 624 yards and four touchdowns as the top-ranked Irish finished the season unbeaten. His reception late in the game against Michigan iced a 13-6 Notre Dame victory.

A senior, Eifert is Notre Dame's all-time leading receiver among tight ends and has also been praised for his blocking.

The Nassau County Sports Commission announced the award on Wednesday, which is named for the late Hall of Fame tight end and Long Island native John Mackey.

Updated December 5, 2012