BYU DB Eddie Heckard Named Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week

Heckard had multiple takeaways and a touchdown against the Red Raiders

On Monday, the Big 12 named BYU cornerback Eddie Heckard the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week. Eddie Heckard was in the right place at the right time multiple times against Texas Tech. Heckard recovered a fumble for a touchdown in the first half to give BYU an early 14-0 lead. He also had an interception for the second consecutive week that he returned 38 yards to set up a BYU field goal. He finished with four tackles including a tackle for loss, one interception, one pass breakup, and a fumble recovery.

BYU CB Eddie Heckard returns an interception against Texas Tech / Credit: BYU Photo

Heckard, a team captain, has been one of the most productive players on BYU's defense this season. He has tallied 23 total tackles, 4 pass breakups, 3 interceptions, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery.

After the game on Saturday night, BYU defensive end Tyler Batty was asked about Eddie Heckard and his contributions to the defense. "Eddie is Eddie man," Batty said. "That dude is always making plays. As you saw tonight...when he recovered it in the end zone I was like 'Of course it was Eddie'. He's that type of dude, he's just always making plays. I think he's had a huge impact on our defense."

"Eddie's a captain of the team," safety Ethan Slade added. "He leads by example. The best way to lead is by making plays on the field so he does that."

Heckard is the second member of the BYU defensive to earn Defensive Player of the Week honors. Earlier this year, Tyler Batty was named the Defensive Player of the Week after his performance at Arkansas.

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