Pitt’s Israel Abanikanda and Marcus Minor take home ACC honors

It’s been a week full of awards for your Pittsburgh Panthers

Pittsburgh Panthers running back Israel Abanikanda and offensive guard Marcus Minor earned ACC Player of the Week accolades for their performances in the Panthers’ 45-29 victory over Virginia Tech. In a big game where the Panthers needed a big performance to keep pace in the ACC Coastal, these two delivered in a big way and they were rewarded for their hard work on the field.

Abanikanda was named ACC Running Back of the Week for the third time this season. The junior went off for 320 yards and six touchdowns on 36 carries. His rushing yardage and rushing TDs are the most by an FBS player in a game this season and in the process, broke Tony Dorsett’s rushing yardage record. Abanikanda, who yesterday was named the Walter Camp National Offensive Player of the Week, continues his stellar junior season as one of the most productive running backs in the country.

Abanikanda made sure to thank his offensive lineman in his post-game interview and it’s good to see a member get recognition. Minor was the catalyst up front for that record-setting performance and earned the ACC Offensive Lineman of the Week award for the first time in his career. Minor was Pitt’s highest-graded offensive lineman in the win over the Hokies. The redshirt senior was at the point of attack for three of Abanikanda’s biggest runs. In the passing game, Minor gave up zero quarterback pressures and zero sacks.

These players, and the rest of the team, will get a much deserved rest week as they prepare for the Louisville Cardinals.