Week eleven saw another shift in the standings for the Mountain West with Hawaii’s dominating victory over San Diego State. We also saw UNLV get back on track with a convincing win over Colorado State. Both of those games saw some electric performances; let’s highlight those and take a look at some other great performances worthy of recognition.
Offensive Player of the Week
Jai’Den Thomas (UNLV)
The Rebels rushing attack was dominant with the team carrying the ball for more than 300 yards against a broken, overmatched Colorado
State squad. Thomas had 131 yards on only 7 carries. Two of those carries went for more than 50 yards. I’m still a little puzzled at Thomas’ lack of carries; it will be interesting to see if he takes on a bigger load as the season closes out.
Defensive Player of the Week
Brevin Hamblin (Utah State)
The junior safety had a career day in Utah State’s 51-14 drubbing of Nevada. Hamblin had an interception that he returned for a touchdown and led the Aggies with 8 tackles and a sack. The win keeps the Aggies’ hopes of playing for a Mountain West Championship alive.
Special Teams Player of the Week
Cam Barfield (Hawaii)
The junior running back put the final nail in the coffin in Hawaii’s big win over San Diego State. Barfield returned the opening kickoff 86 yards for a touchdown to give Hawaii a 31-6 lead over San Diego State.
Newcomer of the Week
Jackson Harris (Hawaii)
The sophomore transfer from Stanford continues to have a spectacular season. Harris is making a case for top receiver in the conference and was the difference-maker in Hawaii’s 38-6 victory over San Diego State. Harris had 7 catches for 130 yards and 3 touchdowns in the Rainbow Warriors’ victory.
Freshman of the Week
Micah Alejado (Hawaii)
I think Alejado is officially a lock to win Freshman of the Year and is making a strong case to win Offensive Player of the Year. Alejado had another strong performance on Saturday against a San Diego State squad that was undefeated in conference play. He completed 22 of 34 passes for 256 yards and 3 touchdowns. Those numbers would have been much bigger if Hawaii had not taken their foot off the gas in the second half.
Who were your top performers from this past weekend? Leave your thoughts in the comments below.
