Murray State University Athletics
Racer Duo Garners OVC Player of the Week Accolades
11/9/2008 6:00:00 AM | Football
Defense and special teams played a key role in Murray State's victory over Southeast Missouri on Saturday afternoon and for those efforts defensive end Austen Lane was named OVC Defensive Player of the Week, while wide receiver Derrick Townsel earned OVC Specialist of the Week honors, the league office announced Sunday.
Lane (Iola, Wisc.) had his best game in a Racer uniform as he spent the majority of the game in the Redhawks backfield and finished 3.5 sacks that totaled 43 yards in losses. The 3.5 sacks are the most for a Racer since Marcus White had three sacks against Eastern Kentucky on Nov. 1, 2003. All in all, Lane totaled seven tackles, a quarterback hurry and a fumble recovery.
The 3.5 sacks raised his season average to 10.0 sacks and with a half a sack of tieing the school record of 10.5 set by Marcus Stepp (1998) and Anthony Hutch (1996). His season total also ranks fourth in the FCS this season.
Townsel (Memphis, Tenn.) earned the specialist honor after taking a punt 64 yards for a touchdown. It was the first punt return for a touchdown for the Racers since Nick Turner went 65 yards against Eastern Illinois in 2005. He finished the game with 72 yards on three punt returns. He also added five catches for 37 yards and has caught at least five passes in every OVC game this season.
The Racers return to the field on Nov. 15 as they travel to take on Eastern Kentucky. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. central time.
