West Virginia’s Michael Hawkins, Jr. and Kentucky’s Jordan Castell Named Walter Camp National FBS Players of the Week – Week 7 (Oct. 20)
RS Sophomore, Quarterback, Austin, TX
Michael Hawkins, Jr. became the first quarterback in West Virginia history to record 450+ passing yards (464) and 75+ rushing yards (77) in a game, leading the Mountaineers to a 45-42 victory over Big-12 rival Cincinnati. Hawkins passed for three touchdowns and ran for two more as WVU improved to 4-3 (1-3 in Big 12). Hawkins leads all FBS quarterbacks with 749 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns this season.
Notes: It is the second time this season that Hawkins has earned Player of Week honors (Week #3 – Sept. 22). It is also the ninth time since 2004 that a West Virginia player has earned Walter Camp National FBS Player of Week honors.
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Senior, Safety, Orlando, FL
The SEC Defensive Player of the Week, Jordan Castell recorded nine tackles, two interceptions and one pass breakup as 15th-ranked Kentucky defeated Oklahoma, 21-13. Castell’s second interception was returned for a touchdown in the fourth quarter which gave the Wildcats an eight-point lead. With the win, Kentucky improved to 6-1, 4-1 in the SEC.
Notes: It is the fifth time since 2004 that a Kentucky player has earned Walter Camp National FBS Player of Week honors. Castell is the first defensive honoree since former Wildcat linebacker Jacquez Jones on Oct. 3, 2021).