Ariy-El Boynton

Typically SDSU football has relied on senior kicker Parker Douglass to carry the special teams in the 2007 season. So when Douglass, a senior from Columbus, Neb., missed two consecutive field goals at UC Davis on Oct. 27, the Jackrabbits needed to rely on someone else.

When his team needed him the most, red shirt freshman Dean Priddy stepped up for the Jacks and was ultimately honored as the Great West Football Conference special teams player of the week for his impressive performance at UC Davis.

“Earning the GWFC special team award is great,” Priddy said, “but I’m just glad I could help give the defense a good opportunity to stop the other team with good field position.”

SDSU downed two of the punts inside the one-yard line and then had another punt that landed on the three-yard line. Through his punting, Priddy forced the Aggies to go the length of the field and had a significant impact in the 28-21 victory. The win was the first victory on the road this season for the Jacks.

“It felt great to make a contribution to the team and put the pressure on their offense,” said Priddy.

The defense was grateful for the punter’s ability to grant them good field position. “Fortunately we got some great punts out of Dean,” said linebacker Justin Kubesh.

In the conference game, Priddy had an average of 45.7 yards per punt.

He is also humble. Priddy gave credit to his coverage team and to his position coach, Cody Butler. “It also helps to have a great snap every time, so I owe a lot to Jordan Miranda (SDSU’s long snapper) for his consistency,” said Priddy.

Head Coach John Stiegelmeier said he has enjoyed seeing Priddy mature throughout the season.

“I am just trying to focus on the next kick every time and making the most of the opportunities I have to contribute to our team each week,” said Priddy.