Florida Tech linebacker J.J. Sanders
Sanders is FIT's first-ever Defensive winner, spearheading the Panthers' defense in a 37-31 upset over No. 12 Tarleton State in Arlington, Texas. The junior took the field for the first time this season, racking up a GSC season-high 12 total tackles led by seven solo stops. He was also active in TSU's backfield, posting 3.5 tackles for a loss of 19 yards, one sack for 12 yards and two quarterback hurries. The Columbus, OH native helped ice the game when he forced a fumble late in the fourth quarter, allowing the offense to run out the clock and sew up the victory.