University of North Dakota Athletics announced Monday, Oct. 19, that North Dakota cornerback Grant Noland was named Missouri Valley Football Conference Defensive Player of the Week, while left tackle Trace Thaden earned his second conference Offensive Lineman of the Week award.
According to the announcement, Noland had a career-high six pass breakups and three solo tackles against South Dakota State. His six breakups were the most by an FCS or FBS player in a game this season, and his season total of 13 put him atop the FCS in that category.
Thaden graded at 84 percent over 62 snaps, the announcement said. His blocking helped North Dakota gain 175 rushing yards, the most South Dakota State had allowed to an FCS opponent this season, and he did not allow a sack or pressure.
The Fighting Hawks are scheduled to play South Dakota on Saturday in a top-10 matchup, according to the announcement. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. Central Time; the game will air on Midco Sports and stream on Midco Sports Plus and ESPN+.
