The University of South Dakota and South Dakota State University dominated Missouri Valley Football Conference player of the week honors following the conference’s opening week of competition, combining to claim four of five available awards.
USD quarterback Austyn Modrzewski earned two major distinctions for his impressive collegiate debut. The Colorado native completed 16 of 20 passes for 304 yards and matched a school record with six touchdown passes in the Coyotes’ dominant 59-20 victory over Central Connecticut State. Modrzewski also added 81 rushing yards, including a 68-yard score. His exceptional performance resulted in offensive player of the week, newcomer of the week, and national freshman of the week honors.
South Dakota State’s linebacker Chase Van Tol and offensive lineman Quinten Christensen each received Valley recognition for their contributions in the Jackrabbits’ 70-7 rout of Stetson. Van Tol, hailing from Tea Area, recorded two tackles, two fumble recoveries, and a pass breakup to earn defensive player of the week. Christensen, a senior from Wessington Springs, graded at 95 percent while delivering eight knockdowns across 37 offensive snaps.
Illinois State’s special teams unit also received recognition, with punter Hayden Futch named special teams player of the week after averaging 66 yards per kick in the Redbirds’ victory over Saint Francis.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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