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Defensive Back Becomes First Vol since Eric Berry to Earn Honor
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Vols redshirt sophomore defensive back Brian Randolph was named the SEC Defensive Player of the Week on Monday, becoming the first Vol to earn the honor since Eric Berry on Nov. 24, 2008.
Randolph recorded the first two interceptions of his career on Saturday, picking off Western Kentucky’s Brandon Doughty twice in the end zone in the Vols’ 52-20 triumph.
The Marietta Ga., native piled up 38 return yards on his picks, and added eight tackles and one pass break up from his strong safety position.
Tennessee forced seven turnovers against the Hilltoppers, the team’s most since recording seven against Memphis on Nov. 10, 1984. The Vols forced turnovers on a NCAA-record four consecutive plays in the first quarter and came up with the ball on five of six plays.
Led by Randolph, the Big Orange pulled in five interceptions, marking the most since achieving the same feat against Kentucky on Nov. 20, 1999. Tennessee, which is currently tied for first in the nation with nine forced turnovers, returned two interceptions for touchdowns in the win.
Berry was a two-time winner of the award in 2008, earning the honor for his performances against Vanderbilt (Nov. 22) and Mississippi State (Oct. 18). Since, Tennessee has earned four SEC defensive honors, including three on the defensive line and one freshman award.
The Vols (2-0) return to action this week when they travel to Autzen Stadium for the first time in program history to take on No. 2/2 Oregon (2-0) on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
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