University of Minnesota safety Jacob Huff was named Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week today.
Huff played a critical role in Minnesota’s 34-3 win against Middle Tennessee on Saturday, as the Gophers improved to 3-0 on the season. The junior totaled four tackles (all solo), one tackle for loss, one pass breakup and he also returned an interception 67 yards for a touchdown.
Huff’s second interception of the year – and of his career – clearly put the game in Minnesota’s favor. His first collegiate touchdown came with 1:56 left in the first half and put the Gophers up 20-3. It was Minnesota’s first defensive score of the season and first since Antoine Winfield Jr. returned an interception 82 yards for a score at Maryland last season.
Huff and the Gophers allowed only three points to the Blue Raiders on Saturday. The three points were the fewest that Minnesota has ever allowed at TCF Bank Stadium and were the fewest for any opponent since Minnesota won 17-3 at Illinois in 2012. Minnesota has given up just 24 points this year and has not allowed a point in the second half through three games.
Huff is Minnesota’s first Big Ten Defensive Player of the Week since Nov. 21, 2016, when Blake Cashman was honored.
The Gophers return to action when they open Big Ten play against Maryland on Sept. 30.