Sept. 12, 2011

USD junior corner back Ryan Costa (Gilroy, CA) was named the Pioneer Football League defensive player of the week for his outstanding performance in the team's 30-10 victory over Western New Mexico University this past Saturday. Costa, a first year player who transferred to USD from Gavilan College, returned a first quarter interception 88 yards for a touchdown that gave USD a 14-0 lead that eventually ended up being the game winning points. The 88-yard interception return is the third longest this season among FCS players. The victory improved USD's record to 2-0 as they become the only undefeated team in the Pioneer Football League heading into week three.

For the game Costa chipped in with 5 tackles (4 solo). This marks the second straight game a Torero defender returned an interception for a touchdown (Mario Kurn had a 15-yarder against Azusa Pacific). Additionally, this is the second straight week a Torero was named a PFL player of the week. Sophomore quarterback Mason Mills was the offensive player of the week after throwing for 402 yards and 4 TD's in the team's 42-40 road win over Azusa Pacific. The Toreros head to UC Davis this Saturday for a 6:05 p.m. contest at Aggie Stadium.