Harris Named American Defensive Player of the Week
September 08, 2014 | Football
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By TOM ZEBOLD
USF Senior Writer
TAMPA, SEPT. 8, 2014 – USF linebacker Nigel Harris has been named American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Week after turning in a huge performance against Maryland on Sept. 6 at Raymond James Stadium.
The sophomore from Tampa posted a team-leading nine tackles, including eight solo stops, along with a career-high two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and a sack in USF's 24-17 loss to the Terps. The former Hillsborough High School standout ranks second nationally with 1.5 forced fumbles per game and he's 12th nationally in solo tackles with 7.5 per game.
"Nigel was everywhere. He was flying around. He was using his athletic ability, which we thought would be good for us defensively this year," head coach Willie Taggart said. "He just played with so much passion and energy and (was) getting to the ball. I think all those guys were feeding off each other. Nigel was just finding himself around the ball, causing turnovers and he played one heckuva football game."
Harris and fellow linebacker Auggie Sanchez (St. Petersburg) also were named College Football Performance Awards linebacker performer of the week honorable mentions. Sanchez, a redshirt freshman, had a 21-yard fumble return for a touchdown and added an interception in the red zone against the Terps.
The Bulls (1-1) continue their four-game home stand with a test against NC State 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Raymond James Stadium. Purchase tickets for USF-NC State and the Bulls' battle with UConn on Friday, Sept. 19 HERE.
USF football season ticket renewals are available. Members may renew their tickets today online, by calling 1-800-GoBulls, or in person at the Ticket Sales and Service Center in the Sun Dome administrative offices (Gate B).
