Valdosta State defensive back Matt Pierce (JR, 5-10, 198, New Orleans, LA).
Pierce notches his first-ever award and is the third different VSU defender to capture defensive laurels this season after a career effort in the Blazers’ 22-21 road win over West Alabama. The junior tallied his team’s final 12 points of the game, thanks to two interception returns for a total 120 yards. Pierce’s first return came from 35 yards and extended Valdosta State’s lead to 16-7 at 2:30 in the second quarter. The New Orleans, LA native saved his best for last, posting the go-ahead TD when he returned his second interception 85 yards with 5:25 left in the game. Pierce also racked up seven tackles led by five solo stops and added one pass break up.