Carson-Newman’s Ward, Rice, Tusculum’s Sykes named Football Players of the Week

ROCK HILL, S.C. -- The South Atlantic Conference has announced its Football Players of the Week. Earning honors for the week ending on September 24 are Carson-Newman running back Matt Ward, C-N linebacker Eric Rice and Tusculum running back Jerlmichael Sykes. Ward was named Offensive Player of the Week, Rice Defensive Player of the Week and Sykes was tabbed Special Teams Player of the Week.

Ward, a 5-10, 175-pound sophomore from Fort Lauderdale, Fla. rushed for 132 yards and two touchdowns in Carson-Newman's 27-21 road win at Virginia State University. Ward had 115 yards on 14 carries in the first half alone as the Eagles improved to 4-0.

Rice, a 5-11, 205-pound junior from Thomasville, Ga., recorded five tackles, including a pair of sacks in the Carson-Newman victory. Four of those tackles were solo hits, including a pair of hits behind the line of scrimmage for a loss of 19 yards.

Sykes, a 5-9, 180-pound sophomore from Atlanta, Ga., returned a blocked punt 30 yards for a touchdown as Tusculum shutout Brevard College 33-0. Sykes' return was his third touchdown of the day. He also recorded 113 yards on 18 rushing attempts, including two scores. He also posted a tackle for loss on special teams as he snuffed out a fake punt.

The SAC Football Players of the Week are selected by a vote of the league's sports information directors.

Pictures, from left: Matt Ward, Eric Rice, Jerlmichael Sykes