CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Bearcats' impressive performance against No. 8 Texas Tech is earning recognition throughout the Big 12. On Monday, the conference announced four weekly honors for Cincinnati following Saturday's 37-24 upset at Nippert Stadium.
Running back Cole Tabb was named Co-Offensive Player of the Week, while safety MJ Cannon earned Co-Defensive Player of the Week. The Bearcats also swept the conference's Offensive Line and Defensive Line of the Week awards, recognizing contributions from both sides of the football.
Tabb continued his impressive recent play, rushing for a career-high 173 yards on just 16 carries. His 58-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter was the first rushing touchdown Texas Tech had allowed all season. He also caught a four-yard touchdown pass from JC French IV in the second quarter.
Cannon was equally impressive defensively, finishing with eight tackles, a forced fumble, an interception, and a pass breakup. His forced fumble on Texas Tech's opening possession was recovered by Antwan Peek Jr., while his incredible one-handed interception late in the first half helped set up another Cincinnati touchdown.
The offensive line's recognition was especially satisfying considering the opponent. Texas Tech entered Saturday with one of the nation's toughest rushing defenses, but Cincinnati ran for 252 yards, including 129 in the second quarter. The line also helped French throw a career-high four touchdown passes, despite losing starting center Taran Tyo to injury during the game. Backup Grant Edgington stepped in to help keep the offense moving.
Cincinnati's defensive front also delivered its best performances of the season. The Bearcats recorded four sacks and seven tackles for loss, while the defense forced three turnovers and limited Texas Tech to just 3-of-15 on third down.
Patrick Bauer led the pass rush with two sacks, and Elijah Gunn recorded his first collegiate sack. The defensive line helped hold the Red Raiders to only 47 yards of offense in the second quarter, allowing Cincinnati to take control before halftime.
The four awards reflect how complete Saturday's performance was. While Tabb and Cannon produced the individual highlights, the recognition for both lines shows how big Cincinnati's work up front was in defeating a nationally ranked opponent.
The Bearcats will need another strong effort this Saturday when undefeated No. 6 Utah visits Nippert Stadium. With Cincinnati coming off one of its biggest victories in recent years, the conference recognition provides another reason for optimism as the team prepares for another big-time Big 12 matchup.
