Talib named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week

Nov. 12, 2007

<?xml:namespace prefix=”st1″ ns=”urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags”?>Lawrence, Kan. – Junior cornerback Aqib Talib earned Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors for the University of Kansas football team for his performance against OklahomaState this past weekend as announced by the conference office on Monday. <?xml:namespace prefix=”o” ns=”urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office”?>

Talib tied a career-high with nine tackles, including one for loss, an interception, and a pass break up in Kansas’ 43-28 win at OklahomaState. His fourth quarter interception and 17-yard return led to a KU field goal and sealed the game for the Jayhawks.

The Richardson, Texas native is the first Jayhawk to receive defensive player of the week honors this year. Kicker Scott Webb (10/22) and kick returner Marcus Herford (9/10) have each been named as Big 12 Special Teams player of the week, but no Kansas player has been named as the conference’s top offensive performer.

Talib is the first non-special team’s selection since running back Jon Cornish was the offensive player of the week following the KansasState game in 2006 and is the first defensive honoree at KU since defensive end Charlton Keith earned the distinction after the Jayhawks defeated Nebraska in 2005.

With four interceptions on the season, Talib is tied for the team-lead. He has 48 tackles on the year, 3.5 for loss and his 11 pass breakups are a team-high.

Kansas improved their record to 10-0 on the year with their victory over the Cowboys and recently moved up to third in the BCS poll, matching its highest ranking in school history. KU was also third in the AP poll in 1968. The Jayhawks will kick off against IowaState this Saturday for senior day at Memorial Stadium. The game can be seen on ABC at 2:30 p.m.