Russell, a 6-4, 190-pound senior from Speedwell, Tenn., accounted for six of his team's eight touchdowns in Tusculum's 55-42 win over Brevard. Russell passed for four touchdowns and ran for two. He went 22-for-29 for 328 passing yards, while also churning out 73 yards on seven carries. This marks the fourth time this season Russell has been named the SAC Offensive Player of the Week.
Johnson, a 6-2, 230-pound sophomore from Newland, N.C., was Mars Hill's leader on defense as the Lions posted a 27-6 win over No. 25 Newberry. Johnson tallied nine tackles, including a pair of sacks and an interception. His pick led the Lions to their first score of the game. He also accounted for a pair of quarterback hurries and a pass break-up.Cotton, a 6-1, 165-pound junior from Tampa, Fla., returned a punt for 71 yards and a touchdown in Wingate's 35-27 win over Lenoir-Rhyne. He also made five receptions for 89 yards, giving him 160 all-purpose yards on the day. Wingate is 7-0 for the first time in school history and ranked No. 15 in NCAA Division II.
The South Atlantic Conference Football Players of the Week are selected by a vote of the league's sports information directors.
