Lehigh University Athletics
Lehigh Football Captures Pair Of Patriot League Weekly Awards
10/23/2023 2:01:00 PM | Football
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – After picking up its first Patriot League win of the season in a 27-18 triumph at Bucknell Saturday, two Mountain Hawks were recognized with Patriot League weekly awards on Monday. Sophomore defensive back Nick Peltekian was named Special Teams Player of the Week and first-year running back Luke Yoder was named Rookie of the Week for the second time in the last three weeks.
Peltekian was recognized for the first time in his career. He returned three punts for 82 yards, highlighted by a 57-yard punt return touchdown in the second quarter that gave the Mountain Hawks a 20-0 lead. The touchdown was the first punt returned for a score by the Mountain Hawks since Jarard Cribbs returned one 84 yards for a touchdown against Cornell on Oct. 4, 2008. Peltekian was returning punts for just the second time in his career. He added seven tackles and two pass breakups as part of Lehigh's strong defensive effort against the Bison.
Yoder carried the load offensively for the Mountain Hawks, rushing 38 times for 138 yards and two touchdowns. His 38 carries were the most since Matt McGowan rushed 39 times against Drake in 2008. Yoder had his second career 100-yard rushing yard day as the Mountain Hawks gained a season-high 188 yards on the ground. He scored touchdowns on a one-yard rush in the first quarter and a two-yard rush in the fourth and added two catches for 21 yards. For the season, Yoder leads the Mountain Hawks with 91 carries for 421 yards and three touchdowns.
Senior linebacker Mike DeNucci garnered honorable mention recognition from the league for his efforts against the Bison. DeNucci led the Mountain Hawk defensive effort with nine tackles, including a tackle for loss. As a team Lehigh limited Bucknell to just 252 yards of offense. DeNucci also blocked a 52-yard field goal attempt on Bucknell's opening possession.
The Mountain Hawks (2-6, 1-2 PL) are on their bye this week and will return to action when they host No. 22/RV Holy Cross Nov. 4 on Salute to Service, presented by Weis Markets. Game time is set for noon from Goodman Stadium. Tickets can be purchased at LehighTickets.com or by calling 610-758-4263 during business hours.
Like Lehigh Football on Facebook and follow on Twitter and Instagram for exclusive updates throughout the season.
Peltekian was recognized for the first time in his career. He returned three punts for 82 yards, highlighted by a 57-yard punt return touchdown in the second quarter that gave the Mountain Hawks a 20-0 lead. The touchdown was the first punt returned for a score by the Mountain Hawks since Jarard Cribbs returned one 84 yards for a touchdown against Cornell on Oct. 4, 2008. Peltekian was returning punts for just the second time in his career. He added seven tackles and two pass breakups as part of Lehigh's strong defensive effort against the Bison.
Yoder carried the load offensively for the Mountain Hawks, rushing 38 times for 138 yards and two touchdowns. His 38 carries were the most since Matt McGowan rushed 39 times against Drake in 2008. Yoder had his second career 100-yard rushing yard day as the Mountain Hawks gained a season-high 188 yards on the ground. He scored touchdowns on a one-yard rush in the first quarter and a two-yard rush in the fourth and added two catches for 21 yards. For the season, Yoder leads the Mountain Hawks with 91 carries for 421 yards and three touchdowns.
Senior linebacker Mike DeNucci garnered honorable mention recognition from the league for his efforts against the Bison. DeNucci led the Mountain Hawk defensive effort with nine tackles, including a tackle for loss. As a team Lehigh limited Bucknell to just 252 yards of offense. DeNucci also blocked a 52-yard field goal attempt on Bucknell's opening possession.
The Mountain Hawks (2-6, 1-2 PL) are on their bye this week and will return to action when they host No. 22/RV Holy Cross Nov. 4 on Salute to Service, presented by Weis Markets. Game time is set for noon from Goodman Stadium. Tickets can be purchased at LehighTickets.com or by calling 610-758-4263 during business hours.
Like Lehigh Football on Facebook and follow on Twitter and Instagram for exclusive updates throughout the season.
Players Mentioned
Lehigh Sports Central: Football
Tuesday, December 02
MHT EP6 - Football
Thursday, November 20
Brown & Flight - Episode 4
Friday, November 14
Football Blitz
Friday, October 31
