A weekend full of exciting games has concluded. There were some huge games where teams across the Mountain West had a chance to prove themselves. With that, there were some outstanding performances on both sides of the ball. Transfers from FCS schools continue to play at a high level and a couple of true freshman continue to make headlines. Let’s see who stood out from this weekend’s slate of games.
Offensive Player of the Week
Torrance Burgess Jr. (Texas State)
We finally saw the Texas State offense that everyone was hyping up this off-season and Torrance Burgess Jr. was a big part of it. The senior tailback had a huge game, rushing for 214 yards on 25 carries to help lead the Bobcats to a 49-35 win over a North Texas team that dominated UNLV the week prior.
Also considered: Dylan Riley (Boise State) had 198 yards rushing and two touchdowns to help the lead the Broncos to a win over South Dakota. Javion Kinnard (San Diego State) had 33 carries for 181 yards. Braden Atkinson (Oregon State) threw for 333 yards and five touchdowns in Oregon State’s win over Montana.
Defensive Player of the Week
Ethan Tierney (Fresno State)
The junior defensive back had two interceptions in Fresno State’s 26-10 win over San Jose State. Tierney also added 38 return yards. It was a huge showing for the Fresno State defense, holding rival San Jose State to 10 points while forcing four turnovers that helped secure the victory.
Also considered: Travis Anderson (Boise State) had two interceptions and two tackles. CJ Blocker (Colorado State) had an interception and 2 tackles. Trez Moore (Texas State) had an interception and 7 tackles.
Special Teams Player of the Week
Manaki Watanabe (Fresno State)
The sophomore kicker connected on four of his five attempts including a long of 52 yards. Watanabe’s impressive day was a critical part of Fresno State’s win over San Jose State. The offense was struggling for much of the game and Watanabe’s ability to put points on the board proved to be a big part of Fresno State’s second win of the season.
Also considered: Tank Hawkins Jr. and Jaylen Thomas (Washington State) both had punt return touchdowns for the Cougars.
Rasean Jones (Boise State)
Jones had 8 receptions for 95 and the first touchdown catch of his collegiate career. Even as a true freshman, Jones has emerged as Maddux Madsen’s favorite target and is leading the Broncos in receiving yards.
Also considered: Jesse Legree (Oregon State) had 4 catches for 100 yards and a touchdown.
Who were your players of the week? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.