KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Fort Hays State defensive tackle Nathan Shepherd earned MIAA Defensive Athlete of the Week honors for his efforts in the 35-6 win over No. 13 ranked Central Missouri last week.

Shepherd recorded seven tackles, including 2.5 for loss. His biggest play occurred when he had the initial hit on a 10-yard sack and fumble, which stalled a UCM drive inside the redzone just before halftime. After UCM recovered the fumble, it turned the ball over on downs two plays later, leaving the score at 21-3 in favor of FHSU.

Later, he recorded a half sack in the third period. Shepherd was part of a defense that recorded eight tackles for loss and limited the Mules to just 31 rushing yards. By halftime, FHSU held UCM to -2 yards rushing. Overall the Tigers allowed 304 yards of total offense to the No. 13 ranked Mules, forcing pass situations the majority of the second half.

Fort Hays State has now had three players earn MIAA Football Athlete of the Week honors this season. Jacob Mezera (Offensive) and Brandon Brown (Special Teams) earned the honors last week.