NATIONAL HONORS: Marty Jones named by two services as FCS National Player of the Week
Tennessee Tech senior safety Marty Jones was named Monday as the FCS National Defensive Player of the Week by both The Sports Network and College Sporting News.
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennessee Tech senior safety Marty Jones was named Monday as the FCS National Defensive Player of the Week by both The Sports Network and College Sporting News, the recognition coming for his standout role Saturday night in Tech's come-from-behind, 39-31 victory over previously unbeaten and 12th ranked Eastern Kentucky.
Jones tied the Ohio Valley Conference single-game record and set a new school record with four interceptions, two of which came in the final 1:07 of the game to preserve Tech's lead in a one-possession contest. He had two interceptions in the second quarter inside his team's 20-yard line and the final two on Eastern Kentucky's last two drives. Jones also added a game-high 12 tackles, his third consecutive contest with double figures in the tackle column.
If those defensive numbers weren't enough, the 6-1, 195-pound Cincinnati native also ran in a two-point conversion when he picked up a low snap and rushed to the end zone (photo at right) with 3:41 to play in the fourth quarter -- providing Tech with the points which proved to be the game-winner.
The four interceptions are the most by a Division I (FBS or FCS) player this season, and raised his career total to 12. He also went over the 300-tackle milestone in the win, pusing his career total to 308 total tackles.
A year ago, Jones received honorable mention as National Defensive Player of the Week from USA College Football for his part in Tech's 41-16 road victory at Southeast Missouri.
Jones and the Golden Eagles set sail for their next adventure Saturday at seventh ranked Jacksonville State. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m.
