Witkiewicz earns PFL Defensive Player of the Week honors
Drake junior nose tackle David Witkiewicz was named the Pioneer Football League’s Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts in the Bulldogs’ 21-19 victory over Valparaiso last Saturday.
The defensive linemen made a highlight-reel interception in the second half. Witkiewicz batted the opposing quarterback’s pass, and swiped the pick. He returned it 13 yards into the end zone on the first play from scrimmage after the break.
Witkiewicz had three tackles, including a half tackle for a loss. Drake held Valpo to just 158 yards for the game.
Witkiewicz has 12.5 tackles on the year, including 3.5 for loss. Witkiewicz has had a flare for the dramatic at Drake. In 2008, he blocked a 28-yard field goal attempt against Davidson as time expired. The Bulldogs won 20-17.
Taylor garners College Football Performance award
Senior defensive end Dain Taylor was a monster last Saturday and earned honorable mention honors as the College Football Performance Award Division I Football Championship Subdivision defensive lineman of the week.
Taylor had six tackles, including five solo, and added a fumble recovery. He tallied three and a half tackles for loss. Taylor also recorded half of a quarterback sack and two pass break-ups.
Taylor has gained quite a reputation as one of the top defensive lineman in the PFL. Taylor is the conference’s active career leader in tackles for loss with 39, and ranks sixth in the same category in the Football Championship Subdivision with 2.13 per game.
Taylor led the PFL in sacks (10.5) and tackles for loss (19.5) last season. He was also second in the league in forced fumbles with four. He received All-PFL first team honors for his efforts.
Taylor was named on the Football Championship Subdivision College Football Performance Award watch list as defensive performer and lineman of the year.
Photos: Courtesy of Drake University Athletics
