Sept. 19, 2017
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. – Sophomore cornerback Joejuan Williams has been named Bednarik Award Player of the Week by the Maxwell Football Club for his performance in Vanderbilt’s 14-7 victory over No. 18 Kansas State.
Williams, a first-year starter from Nashville, becomes the second Commodore defensive player recognized following the impressive Commodore victory. Safety LaDarius Wiley earned a share of Southeastern Conference Defensive Player of the Week honors Monday from the league office.
Williams contributed six solo stops, eight total tackles and a career-high three passes defended against the K-State offensive attack. One of Williams’ pass deflections resulted in a Commodore interception.
Williams becomes the first Commodore to earn Bednarik Award Player of the Week recognition since Zach Cunningham was named after a 19-tackle performance at Georgia last October.
The Vanderbilt defense held a potent Wildcat offense in check. Kansas State entered the contest averaging 55 points and more than 500 total yards, but produced a lone touchdown and 277 total yards against the Commodores.
Williams and the defense also shut down standout Wildcat quarterback Jesse Ertz. The KState senior completed just 10 of 28 passes for 76 yards. He also threw interceptions to Wiley and fellow safety Ryan White.
Through three games, the Vanderbilt defense ranks among the nation’s top units. The Commodores top the NCAA in scoring defense, total defense, pass defense and red zone efficiency, and rank among the leaders in first downs allowed and third-down conversions.
This Saturday, the Commodores face their toughest test, holding No. 1 Alabama in Vanderbilt Stadium. It is the second of a four-game stretch in which each Vanderbilt’s opponent is ranked in the Top 25.
Kickoff for the Alabama game is 2:30 p.m. It also marks Vanderbilt’s first appearance in the featured “SEC on CBS” game of the week since hosting Georgia on Sept. 12, 2015.