Newton Named MAC Defensive Player of the Week

Senior safety had an interception and a fumble recovery against Akron

Mike Newton

BUFFALO, NY – Mike Newton was named Mid-American Conference East Division Defensive Player of Week on Monday for his performance in the Bulls' 21-17 win over Akron on Saturday.

The senior safety had eight tackles, a fumble recovery, an interception and a pass breakup against the Zips. Newton’s turnovers were very timely as he recovered a fumble at the Buffalo six-yard line and intercepted a pass in the Buffalo end zone to keep Akron off the scoreboard.

In Saturday's win, Newton became just the second UB player in the Buffalo's Division I-A era to amass 300 career tackles. His 307 tackles rank fifth in school history. His interception was the 11 of his career, which is seventh all time at UB.

For the season, the team captain has 49 tackles, an interception, a fumble recovery and a team-best six pass breakups.

Newton is the second UB player this season to earn Player of the Week honors as Zach Maynard was named Offensive Player of the Week after his performance against Pittsburgh in week two.