By Alex Boggis, UT Martin Assistant Sports Information Director
BRENTWOOD, Tenn. – The University of Tennessee at Martin football duo of running back Zak Wallace (Offensive) and defensive end Daylan Dotson (Defensive) claimed a pair of Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Week honors after impressive performances against Houston Christian on Saturday.
The tandem continued a theme of strong individual performances for UT Martin as the team has claimed 12 weekly honors for the OVC. Through the team’s eight contest, the Skyhawks have earned multiple player of the week selections five times.
A native of Benton, Ark., Wallace scored a career-high four touchdowns and rushed for 155 yards as UT Martin won 52-28 at Houston Christian. The sophomore carried the ball 15 times, averaging 10.3 yards/carry; it marked his third 100-yard rushing effort of the season. He had rushing scores on runs of 2, 17, 63 and 41 yards in the victory, marking his third career game with three or more touchdowns. His performance marked the first performance with four rushing touchdowns in a game since 2008 while becoming just the seventh FCS player this season to achieve the feat. The tailback currently ranks fourth nationally in rushing touchdowns (14), fifth in scoring (10.5 points/game) and 23rd in rushing yards/game (92.8).
Hailing from Savannah, Ga., Dotson posted arguably the biggest game of his career after recording five tackles, 2.0 sacks, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and a defensive touchdown as UT Martin forced seven turnovers at Houston Christian. Dotson played part in three sacks, one solo and combining on two others. Two of his sacks resulted in fumbles, one of which he recovered in the end zone for a touchdown. The defensive end currently leads the OVC in both tackles for loss (8.0) and sacks (6.5).
UT Martin will return to action on Saturday, Nov. 5 when playing in its first home game in over a month against Kennesaw State. Kickoff from Hardy Graham Stadium is scheduled for noon.
Graphic courtesy of UT Martin Sports Information