ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Drake University football's John Hugunin was named Pioneer Football League (PFL) Defensive Player of the Week for the second time this year, while Eric Saubert earned PFL Offensive Player of the Week honor for the first time this season, the league announced on Sunday (Oct. 25).
Hugunin recorded a career-high 20 tackles (10 solo) to spark Drake's defense in a 28-24 PFL victory against Jacksonville, Saturday. His 20 tackles were the most by a PFL defender this season and only the 10th time since 2002 a PFL player has recorded 20 or more tackles. Hugunin forced a pair of fumbles in the contest, including one to set up Drake's game-winning fourth-quarter drive. He also was credited with 1½ tackles for loss, all in sacks, one resulting in his other fumble forced.
Saubert caught three touchdowns to help Drake down previously unbeaten PFL foe Jacksonville. His three touchdown catches tied the PFL single-game best this season and the first for a Drake receiver since 2003. Saubert caught nine passes for 118 yards – the first 100-yard receiving game by a Drake player this season. In addition, he blocked a punt to set up a Drake drive deep in Jacksonville territory. He helped cap the resulting drive with a nine-yard TD for an early 14-3 lead.
Hugunin, Saubert and the rest of the Bulldogs will travel to Morehead State on Saturday.
