OKLAHOMA CITY — Texas A&M strong safety Justin Evans was named the Jim Thorpe Player of the Week on Wednesday after last week’s game-changing performance in the Aggies’ overtime win of then-No. 16 UCLA.
Evans, a senior from Wiggins, Miss., grabbed a pair of fourth-quarter interceptions of touted UCLA quarterback Josh Rosen and then broke up a pass attempt on fourth down in overtime to clinch the 31-24 victory over the Bruins. Evans also contributed eight tackles in the game.
The Jim Thorpe Award is given annually to the top defensive back in college football. The award is named after one of history’s greatest all-around athletes, Jim Thorpe, who excelled as a running back, passer and kicker on the offensive side of the ball, but also stood out as a defensive back. In addition to his legendary performance on the football field, Thorpe played professional baseball and won Olympic gold medals in the decathlon and pentathlon.
Jim Thorpe Award Honorable Mention Players for Week One:
Malik Hooker, Ohio St, Soph., S, 6-2 205, New Castle, PA. In his very first career start, Malik Hooker was a huge part to OSU’s defensive performance against Bowling Green with 4 tackles and a pair of interceptions that included one of the acrobatic variety.
Derwin James, Florida St, Soph., S, 6-3 211, Haines City, FL. Derwin James vindicated some of his preseason All-American hype by having a huge opening game against Ole Miss in which he collected 8 tackles and his first interception of his career.
Story courtesy of Texas A&M Athletics