MANHATTAN, Kan. (KCTV) - The star of Kansas State’s standout defensive performance against TCU has earned some recognition.

On Monday, the Big 12 Conference announced that K-State linebacker Des Purnell was named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week.

Purnell made several game-changing plays in the Wildcats’ 41-28 victory over TCU on Saturday. In the third quarter, Purnell got a sack on one play and followed it up with a 25-yard interception return for a touchdown on the ensuing play.

Later, the Topeka native intercepted another pass from TCU quarterback Josh Hoover to seal the game in the fourth quarter.

Purnell’s award is the first conference honor of his career. The senior linebacker is one of three linebackers in the country to record multiple interceptions in a game this season.

See Full Page