Following a six-point win to cement the Ball State University football team's most successful season in 11 years, two players received individual honors for their performances.
Cardinals' junior tight end Darius Hill was rewarded for his season resume, while sophomore defensive end Brandon Crawford was honored for his play in the team's final regular season game at Northern Illinois University.
Hill - who leads all Mid-American Conference tight ends in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns - was named one of eight semifinalists for the John Mackey Award. The honor is given to the top tight end in Division I football, as chosen by the John Mackey Award Selection Committee, and will be announced Dec. 6.
In 12 games, Hill has recorded 56 receptions for 837 yards and has caught nine touchdowns. All three statistics rank in the top five among tight ends in the nation.
Crawford recorded a career-high three sacks, defended two passes and forced a fumble in the Cardinals' 27-21 win against the Huskies. On the season, the sophomore has eight sacks and 17 tackles for loss, both of which rank third in the conference.
It's the second MAC West Division Defensive Player of the Week honor for Crawford, a 31-year-old former Marine. He was also named the MAC West Division Special Teams Player of the Week earlier this season.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
