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As we all relish replaying Rico Beard's July prediction that Rutgers would beat Michigan, let's also relish two Big Ten Players of the Week. Actually, it's three, since the Kemoko Dragon got two.
Offensive Players of the Week
Gary Nova, Rutgers
Sr., QB, Elmwood Park/Don Bosco Prep
- Passed for a career-high 404 yards, including three touchdown tosses, to lead Rutgers to a victory over Michigan
- Completed a pass to nine different receivers for the second time this season
- Threw for 282 yards in the first half, the best opening half of his career
- Records his first career Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week award
- First Rutgers Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week
Defensive Player of the Week
Godwin Igwebuike, Northwestern
Fr., S, Pickerington, Ohio/Pickerington
- Recorded eight tackles and three interceptions to guide Northwestern to a victory over Wisconsin
- His three interceptions tied a school record, were the most by a Wildcat since 1973 and match the second-best single-game total in Big Ten history
- Two of his interceptions occurred in the end zone and the final pick came with 18 seconds remaining in the contest to seal the win
- Claims his first career Defensive Player and Freshman of the Week honors
- Last Northwestern Defensive Player of the Week: Collin Ellis (Sept. 2, 2013)
- Last Northwestern Freshman of the Week: Anthony Walker (Sept. 29, 2014)
Special Teams and Freshman Player of the Week
Kemoko Turay, Rutgers
Fr., DE, Newark/Barringer
- Blocked a Michigan field goal attempt with 3:01 remaining to lead Rutgers to a 26-24 victory
- Leads the nation with three blocked kicks this season
- Added 0.5 tackles for loss and one pass breakup against the Wolverines
- Claims his first career Special Teams Player of the Week honor
- First Rutgers Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week