Russ Earns National Freshman of the Week Honors

MACON, Ga. (MERCER RELEASE) – The awards keep coming for Mercer University quarterback John Russ who was tabbed as the National Freshman of the Week by The Sports Network after recording five total touchdowns in a 45-42 comeback win over Jacksonville.

Just two days after being added to the Jerry Rice Award Watch List, Russ proved he belongs in the discussion as the top FCS freshman in the country when he totaled five touchdowns to record the best game of his collegiate career.

The Buford, Ga., native has become the ultimate duel threat in the pistol offense and Saturday was no exception, passing for 217 yards and three touchdowns and rushing for 145 yards and two scores.

Russ ranks No. 14 in the country in pass efficiency and No. 1 among freshman. He has 30 total touchdowns and is No. 2 in the country in yards per completion at 16.5.

The field general for the Bears has had a rookie season for the record books, throwing for 1701 yards and 19 touchdowns and rushing for 732 yards and 11 scores through the first 10 games.

Mercer’s offense ranks No. 1 in the country in fewest interceptions, No. 1 in rushing yards per carry, No. 2 in rushing offense, No. 2 fewest turnovers lost and No. 3 in red zone offense.

In 18 trips inside the red zone in PFL action, Russ has guided the Bears to scores each time, including 13 touchdowns and five Tyler Zielenske field goals.

With conference championship hopes on the line, Mercer returns to action next Saturday, traveling to Poughkeepsie, N.Y., to take on Marist in another all-important PFL game. Kickoff is slated for 1 p.m. at Tenney Stadium.