Football
November 11, 2024
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CHARLOTTE, N.C. (theACC.com) – The Atlantic Coast Conference has officially announced the Football Players of the Week, celebrating the incredible performances showcased during Week 11 of the 2024 college football season. These prestigious selections are determined through a meticulous voting process involving a select panel of media experts. This week’s standout players have been honored as follows:
QUARTERBACK – Fernando Mendoza, California, QB, Miami, Florida
In a stunning display of skill and determination, Mendoza threw for an impressive 385 yards, marking a new career high, while contributing to three touchdowns (two passing, one rushing) in the historic 46-36 victory over Wake Forest—California’s first ever win in the ACC. Mendoza showcased his versatility by completing passes to 11 different receivers, which included striking touchdown passes of 11 and 2 yards. His performance also included rushing for 51 yards, featuring a significant 24-yard run, which catapulted his total rushing yards to a personal best, ultimately leading Cal to a hard-fought triumph.
RUNNING BACK – Kye Robichaux, Boston College, RB, Columbus, Georgia
Robichaux commanded attention as he rushed for a remarkable 198 yards, coupled with two touchdowns on 28 carries, showcasing his exceptional talent in Boston College’s thrilling 37-31 victory over Syracuse. Averaging a solid 7.9 yards per carry, Robichaux highlighted his performance with an impressive long run of 41 yards. He ignited the Eagles’ scoring with a dynamic 34-yard touchdown dash in the first quarter, and his critical 14-yard touchdown run in the third quarter extinguished Syracuse’s only lead during the fiercely contested game.
RECEIVER – Oronde Gadsden II, Syracuse, TE, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
In a standout showdown against Boston College, Gadsden shone brightly with nine receptions totaling 114 yards. His highlight moment came with a spectacular one-handed touchdown catch that will be talked about for weeks to come. Gadsden not only led Syracuse in receptions and receiving yards but also made his presence felt as one of two Orange receivers surpassing the 100-yard mark during the match.
OFFENSIVE LINEMAN – Jordan Williams, Georgia Tech, RT, Gainesville, Georgia
As the anchor of Georgia Tech’s offensive line, Williams played a pivotal role in propelling his team to a commanding 28-23 victory over the formidable No. 4 Miami. The Yellow Jackets amassed an astounding total of 271 rushing yards against Miami’s No. 8 ranked rushing defense. Williams executed crucial blocks that facilitated both of the team’s touchdown runs, particularly on the game-sealing score by Haynes King in the fourth quarter. Notably, Georgia Tech’s offensive line did not yield a single sack throughout the game, demonstrating exceptional protection for their quarterback. The significant 271 rushing yards exceeded Miami’s average of 95.2 yards allowed per game by an astonishing 176 yards and surpassed their previous season-high surrender.
DEFENSIVE LINEMAN – Xavier Carlton, California, Edge, Modesto, California
Carlton emerged as a dominant force for the Golden Bears on their momentous day, leading a defensive line that achieved its first triumph in ACC history. He recorded an impactful two sacks and rounded up his performance with a total of five tackles. Carlton’s relentless pursuit contributed significantly to Cal’s thrilling 46-36 win over Wake Forest, not only showcasing his skills but also his potential in future games.
LINEBACKER & ROOKIE – Sammy Brown, Clemson, LB, Commerce, Georgia
In his inaugural career start, Brown made an immediate impact by tallying a team-high eight tackles, which included 2.5 tackles-for-loss and a significant sack. The Clemson defense, with Brown at the forefront, stifled Virginia Tech’s offense, limiting them to a season-low 40 rushing yards and a mere 1.9 yards per carry. His critical third-quarter sack not only marked his fourth of the season but also tied him for the fourth-most sacks recorded by a true freshman in Clemson’s illustrious history. With a total of 9.0 tackles-for-loss, Brown is one mere tackle away from achieving the distinguished milestone of 10.0 tackles-for-loss in a single season—an impressive feat for a freshman.
DEFENSIVE BACK – Jonas Sanker, Virginia, S, Charlottesville, Virginia
Sanker was an unstoppable defender in Virginia’s gripping 24-19 victory at Pittsburgh, finishing with five tackles and two crucial tackles-for-loss, complemented by an impressive interception and a blocked field goal. His defensive prowess was on full display when, during three consecutive plays in the third quarter, he executed a tackle-for-loss to force a fourth down, blocked a field goal attempt, and snatched an interception on Pitt’s subsequent play. Demonstrating critical timing, Sanker blocked the field goal when the Cavaliers were trailing by six, then played a key role in scoring the go-ahead touchdown shortly thereafter. His sensational 45-yard interception return deep into Pitt’s territory set the stage for what ultimately became the game-winning score.
SPECIALIST – Ryan Coe, California, K, McDonald, Pennsylvania
Coe distinguished himself with a pair of clutch 54-yard field goals, both of which were instrumental in Cal’s exhilarating 46-36 road win over Wake Forest. The first 54-yard field goal, struck as the first half concluded, marked a new career-long for him. His subsequent 54-yarder solidified the Bears’ advantage, pushing them to a two-score lead with just 6:39 left in the game, showcasing his skills under pressure and securing his place in the game’s decisive moments.
**Interview with Fernando Mendoza: ACC Football Player of the Week**
**Editor:** Good morning, Fernando! Congratulations on being named the ACC Player of the Week for your outstanding performance against Wake Forest. How does it feel to receive this recognition?
**Fernando Mendoza:** Thank you! It’s an incredible honor. I’ve worked hard throughout the season, so being recognized like this feels amazing. It’s really a testament to the entire team’s effort, though.
**Editor:** You threw for a career-high 385 yards and contributed to three touchdowns in that game. Can you walk us through your mindset as the game unfolded, especially in such a historic win for California?
**Fernando Mendoza:** Absolutely. Going into the game, I was focused on staying calm and executing our game plan. The offensive line gave me great protection, which allowed me to find my receivers. Completing passes to 11 different guys really shows the depth of our offense. Every time a play developed, I just trusted my teammates to make things happen.
**Editor:** Your versatility was impressive, especially with your 24-yard rushing play. How important is it for a quarterback to be multifaceted in today’s football?
**Fernando Mendoza:** I think it’s crucial. Defenses are getting faster and more aggressive, so being able to contribute both in the air and on the ground opens up more opportunities. It keeps the defenses guessing, and I just try to take what they give me.
**Editor:** The win marked California’s first victory in the ACC. What does this milestone mean for you and the program?
**Fernando Mendoza:** It’s huge! This victory feels like a turning point for our program. We’ve been working so hard to build our identity in the ACC, and to finally get that first win means a lot. It gives us confidence moving forward and shows that we can compete at this level.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, what are your goals for the remainder of the season, both personally and as a team?
**Fernando Mendoza:** For me personally, I want to continue improving and helping my teammates make plays. As a team, we’re focused on building momentum and going after a bowl game. We’ve got to take it one week at a time, but we definitely want to finish the season on a high note.
**Editor:** Thank you, Fernando, for sharing your thoughts with us. Best of luck in your upcoming games!
**Fernando Mendoza:** Thank you! I appreciate it.
