Football Players of the Week: September 26
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. –
North Alabama quarterback Jacob Tucker and
Florida Tech defensive back Jo Jackson have been named the Gulf South Conference Offensive and Defensive Players of the Week for games played in Week Four of the 2016 season.
West Georgia kick returner Devontae Jackson was tabbed the Special Teams Player of the Week, and
Valdosta State running back Cedric Hollingshed is the Freshman of the Week.
Tucker rushed for three touchdowns and threw for one more in a 45-7 GSC road win for North Alabama over West Alabama. He threw for 271 yards and, if you take out yards lost on sacks, ran for 71 yards. This contest was the first road conference game in Tucker’s career, and with the win, the Lions stay unbeaten in conference play. The UNA QB is currently fourth in the conference in rushing yards per game (65.0).
Jo Jackson became the first player in FIT history to intercept two passes in a single game in the win at Division I-FCS Presbyterian. His second interception of the night helped seal the victory. After PC’s touchdown drew them to within two scores, Jackson returned an interception 83 yards for a touchdown, bumping the Panther lead up to three scores in the fourth quarter. It was FIT's first pick six since its inaugural season in 2013. He also added four tackles and a pair of pass breakups.
Devontae Jackson becomes the second straight player from West Georgia to earn this award. After Albany State scored a touchdown to tie the game, Jackson returned the ensuing kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown. This proved to be the difference in the game, as the Wolves won by four points. It’s the first kickoff return for a touchdown in the GSC this season. The sophomore is UWG’s record holder for kickoff return average.
Hollingshed made his collegiate debut on Saturday night, helping spark the Blazer offense and lead VSU to its first conference win of 2016. Hollingshed ran for a total of 78 yards in the game against West Florida, averaging more than seven yards per carry and scoring a pair of touchdowns.
Also nominated for Offensive Player of the Week: Chris Robinson (Delta State, RB); Marcel Newson (Mississippi College, WR); Mark Cato (Florida Tech, QB)
Also nominated for Defensive Player of the Week: Erin Brown (Delta State, DE); Steven Bradley (Mississippi College, S); Jevaris Jones (Shorter, LB); A.J. Leggett (West Georgia, S)
Also nominated for Special Teams Player of the Week: Cody Mills (Delta State, P/K); Gavin Wilson (Valdosta State, P); Matt Brasher (Mississippi College, K)
Also nominated for Freshman of the Week: Leon Green (Delta State, WR); Julian Charles (Mississippi College, LB); Troy Weissenhofer (Florida Tech, LB)