Byard honored by Sun Belt Conference

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Middle Tennessee redshirt freshman safety Kevin Byard was named the Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Week on Monday as announced by the league office. It marks the first-ever player of the week honor for the Lithonia, Ga., native.

Byard forced three Troy turnovers in Middle Tennessee's 24-21 win over Troy on Saturday, including a 77-yard interception return for a touchdown late in the game that proved to be the game-winner. Overall, Byard had a career-best two interceptions, forced a fumble, had a pass breakup and six tackles in the victory.

Byard now leads the team with four interceptions on the year, and is one of three Blue Raiders with two forced fumbles.

This marks the 49th SBC Player of the Week honor under Rick Stockstill and the 20th defensive honor.

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