Lebanon, IL - Following McKendree University Football's thrilling 46-43 overtime victory over Quincy, junior running back Jerry Richardson and freshman kicker Truman Carnine earned Great Lakes Valley Conference weekly honors Monday. Richardson was named the GLVC Offensive Player of the Week, while Carnine claimed Special Teams Player of the Week recognition.
Richardson powered the Bearcat rushing attack with 199 yards and two touchdowns on 22 carries, averaging 9.0 yards per attempt. The Collinsville, Illinois, native also caught a 23-yard pass, finishing with 222 all-purpose yards in the Battle for the Land of Lincoln.
His first touchdown provided an early jolt, as Richardson broke free for a 72-yard score on the first play of McKendree's third possession, extending the Bearcats' lead to 21-7. He delivered another explosive run early in the fourth quarter, scoring from 30 yards out to push McKendree's advantage to 43-33. Richardson helped the Bearcats finish with 287 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the ground.
The award is Richardson's first career GLVC Offensive Player of the Week honor. He becomes the second Bearcat to earn the distinction this season, joining quarterback Kendrick Lyons, who was recognized on September 21.
Carnine delivered a flawless kicking performance, converting all three field-goal attempts and all five extra points for 14 points. The Mt. Vernon, Illinois, native connected from 38 yards in the second quarter and 41 yards in the third before providing the afternoon's decisive kick. He also totaled 503 yards on eight kickoffs, averaging 62.9 yards per kickoff.
After Johnnie Robinson intercepted Quincy's opening overtime possession, Carnine drilled a 39-yard field goal to secure the victory and keep the Top Hat in Lebanon. The recognition marks Carnine's second career GLVC Special Teams Player of the Week award.
McKendree improved to 2-3 overall and 2-1 in GLVC play with the win. The Bearcats remain at Leemon Field this Saturday, October 10, hosting Southwest Baptist for Homecoming. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m.
