Nov. 6, 2014

DEKALB, Ill. - Northern Illinois University cornerback Anthony Brooks earned his first career Mid-American Conference Defensive Player of the Week honor following his performance in NIU's, 35-21, victory at Ball State the league announced Thursday.

With NIU leading 21-14 and Ball State looking to drive the length of the field for the tying score in the fourth quarter, Anthony Brooks intercepted Ball State quarterback Jack Milas and returned his first career interception 21 yards for a Huskie touchdown to give NIU a 28-14 lead. The score was the first for a Huskie defender this season. The sophomore from Detroit had four tackles, three solo, and a pass break up as NIU defeated Ball State, 35-21, at Scheumann Stadium to keep its MAC West title hopes alive.

Brooks join Rasheen Lemon, Drew Hare and Tyler Wedel as Huskies that have earned league honors this season. Lemon picked up MAC West Defensive Player of the Week accolades following his play in the win at Northwestern (9-6), while Hare and Wedel picked up MAC West Offensive and Special Teams Player of the Week honors, respectively, after their performances in the Huskies' victory at UNLV (9-15).

NIU plays its final home game of the season next Tuesday, Nov. 11, when the Huskies play host to Toledo at Huskie Stadium. NIU will honor 19 seniors prior to the game and it's Military Appreciation Night with all former and current members of the military admitted for $14. For tickets call 815-753-PACK or log on to NIUHuskies.com.

-NIU-