Missouri State University

  Missouri State defensive end Waylon Richardet (Jr., Perryville, Mo.) has been named Missouri Valley Football Conference Defensive Player of the Week for the second time in three weeks after his performance in the Bears' 17-7 win at Youngstown State on Saturday (Oct. 3).

  In the Bears' first-ever win at Youngstown, Richardet was dominant for his team's defensive unit.  He tallied eight total tackles, including four solos, snagged a key interception at the Missouri State three-yard line to kill a 17-play Penguins' drive, accounted for 1.5 tackles for loss, and blocked a Youngstown State field goal.  Richardet also returned one kickoff for 15 yards and was in on two offensive red zone plays.  His efforts helped the Bears hold their opposition to 7 points for the first time since 2007 and improve to 3-2 overall and 1-1 in the league.

  He was also named MVFC Defensive Player of the Week in the team's Sept. 19 win over Murray State.

  Also recognized by the league today were Illinois State's Eyad Salem (Offensive Player of the Week) and Kevin Mazur (Special Teams Player of the Week).

  Missouri State, which has won three of its last four games, returns to Plaster Field this Saturday at 2 p.m. to take on nationally-ranked South Dakota State in league play.  Tickets are available by calling (417) 836-7678 or on-line at www.MissouriStateTix.com.