LEBANON, Tenn.--Following a thrilling homecoming victory, Cumberland football swept this week's Mid-South Conference Player of the Week awards, the league announced Monday. Junior quarterback
Jake Parker, senior linebacker
Boston Follis, and junior kicker
Jack Kantner were each honored for their standout performances in the Phoenix's 35-33 upset victory over previously unbeaten and No. 6-ranked Campbellsville on Homecoming.
Parker was electric in leading the Phoenix offense, accounting for 428 total yards and three touchdowns in the victory. The Cartersville, Georgia, native completed 22-of-34 passes for 289 yards and a touchdown, while also rushing 16 times for 139 yards and two more scores. Parker engineered several key drives to keep the Phoenix in striking distance and led a 23-point fourth quarter comeback. His 70-yard touchdown rush at the end of the game helped put the game away and helped Cumberland hand Campbellsville its first loss of the season.
This is Parker's first MSC Weekly honor of his career.
On the defensive side, Follis anchored the Cumberland defense with a team-high nine total tackles, including six solo stops. The South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, native played a key role in limiting a Tiger offense that entered the game averaging over 40 points per contest.
This is the first Mid-South Conference Defensive Player of the Week award for Follis of the season and of his career.
Rounding out the sweep, Kantner was clutch in the kicking game, accounting for 11 total points while remaining perfect on the day. The Blue Ridge, Georgia, native went 3-for-3 on field goals and 2-for-2 on extra points, connecting from 20, 21, and 30 yards. His 30-yard field goal with 3:38 remaining in the fourth quarter gave the Phoenix their first lead since early in the second quarter and ultimately proved to be the game-winner. Kantner also recorded three touchbacks on kickoffs to help control field position throughout the contest.
This is Kantner's first Mid-South Conference Special Teams Player of the Week Award this season, but the third of his career.
Cumberland will look to continue their momentum at home hosting the University of the Cumberlands on Saturday.
