Arkansas State linebacker Jordan Sample has been named the Sun Belt Conference Special Teams Player of the Week after delivering two game-changing plays in the Red Wolves’ dramatic 30-29 win over App State on Saturday.
Sample, a redshirt sophomore from Missouri City, Texas, made his presence felt in a pivotal second quarter that helped Arkansas State erase a 13-3 deficit and ultimately secure bowl eligibility for the third straight season.
With App State lining up for a 43-yard field goal, Sample broke through and blocked the kick, swinging momentum toward the Red Wolves. Just moments later, he pounced on a muffed kickoff return, giving A-State prime field position deep in Mountaineer territory.
Those two special teams plays helped the Red Wolves tie the game 16-16 by halftime — a turnaround that proved crucial in the one-point victory.
The Red Wolves (6–6, 4–3 SBC) now await their bowl destination, which will be announced on Dec. 7.
