SPARTANBURG, S.C.— Samford freshman linebacker Deion Pierre was named the Southern Conference's Special Teams Player of the Week, when the league released its weekly football awards on Monday.
 
Pierre helped the Bulldogs get off to a fast start in their 45-0 win at Furman on Saturday. After the Samford defense forced the Paladins to punt on the opening drive of the game, Pierre blocked Jon Croft Hollingsworth's punt, which was scooped up by Jay Galloway and returned 15 yards for a touchdown. Pierre later added a tackle in the win.
 
Pierre is the fourth Samford player to be honored by the SoCon so far this season. Denzel Williams (Offense POW), Josh Kimberlin (Defensive POW) and Krondis Larry (Freshman of the Week) were all honored in Sept. 22.
 
Samford will play host to Concordia on Saturday at 2 p.m. for the school's 2014 homecoming game. Tickets are available by calling 205-726-DOGS (3647) or by going to the ticket page at www.samfordsports.com.