Roby tabbed GPAC defensive player of the week

GPAC release

SEWARD, Neb. – Tarence Roby’s game-changing defensive touchdown in Saturday’s 35-28 win over Midland University has propelled the redshirt freshman defensive back to GPAC/Hauff Mid-America Sports Defensive Player of the Week accolades, as announced by the league on Monday.

A native of Rockford, Ill., Roby came up with seven tackles, two pass break ups and an interception from his cornerback spot. The former Northern Illinois University Huskie made his biggest contribution when he scooped up a fumble late in the first half and returned it 46 yards for a touchdown, giving the Bulldogs a 21-14 lead at the time.

“I saw the running back catch the ball so I went over to pursue,” Roby said shortly after the game. “I saw the ball pop out and I was just hoping it wouldn’t go out of bounds. Coach always says if it’s at the end of the quarter try to scoop and score. That’s what I did and I ended up in the end zone.”

On the season, Roby has 15 total tackles, three pass break ups, an interception and two fumble recoveries. Roby’s touchdown was the first score by a Bulldog defensive player since Matt Keener returned an interception 23 yards for a touchdown in last year’s win at Dakota State University on Sept. 28.

Roby and the Bulldogs (2-1, 1-1 GPAC), now receiving votes in the national poll, return to action on Saturday when they host Dakota State. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m.