Sept. 25, 2007

Football: Rory Berry, Maurice Smith, Mike Barlak Named HBK Players of the Game

    Youngstown – Senior wide receiver Rory Berry, senior defensive end Maurice Smith and junior snapper/linebacker Mike Barlak were named the Hill Barth & King Players of the Game for their performances against Lock Haven, the coaching staff announced on Tuesday.

    Berry had a solid outing tying his career high with six receptions for 62 yards. Of his six grabs, three came in the third quarter. Berry had six catches earlier this season against South Dakota State.

    Smith was credited with 28 plays by the coaching staff recording four total tackles. He had two solos, two assists, two tackles for losses and a sack.

    Barlak has had a solid season as the team's snapper. Against the Bald Eagles, the Guins converted all five PAT attempts and had five punts, but two different individuals. Barlak was also credited with a tackle against LHU.

    Junior offensive tackle Brad Samsa was named the Jim Zdelar Offensive Lineman of the Game. Samsa, who started one game at center as redshirt freshman and the past 17 games at guard made his first career start at left tackle. The Guins did not allow a sack and surrendered only three tackles for losses.

    Senior linebacker Jeremiah Wright was named the Jermaine Hopkins Defensive Lineman of the Game. Wright played 28 snaps and tied for team-high honors with eight tackles. He has been the team's leading tackler each of the past three games.

    Earning scout team honors for their efforts during the week were freshman wide receiver Kamryn Keys (offense), freshman linebacker Adam House (defense) and junior cornerback Tom Krupko (special teams).

    Senior quarterback Tom Zetts was tabbed the Haines Family Player of the Game by the YSU radio broadcast crew. Zetts completed 11-of-16 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for 45 yards on four carries, including a 25-yard score.

    Senior offensive guard Leon Edwards was the recipient of the Wachovia Leadership Award. Edwards made his first career start against Lock Haven and helped co-produce the Dom Rosselli tribute video that was aired on PenguinVision at halftime.

    Despite winning three straight games, YSU continued to fall in the polls. The Guins dropped from ninth to 10th in The Sports Network top 25 while falling from seventh to 10th in the FCS Coaches Poll.
    Youngstown State faces a stiff test on Saturday when it plays host to Missouri State. The Bears (3-1) visit Stambaugh Stadium at 6 p.m.