Junior John Guilford (Spencer, Ohio/Black River) was named this week's Pioneer Football League Defensive Player of the Week following his three-sack performance in a 17-3 win over Butler on Saturday afternoon.

Guilford racked up seven tackles on the day - four for a loss - including a QB hit. He leads the Valparaiso defense with 12.5 tackles for a loss (3rd in the PFL) and five sacks (tied for 8th in the PFL). The USA College Football FCS Preseason All-American has represented the cornerstone of a defense that has yielded 156 fewer points through ten games than a season ago.  

"John has been the backbone of our defense the entire season and his effort against Butler was proof of that. I am thrilled that he is being recognized for his performance," head coach Dave Cecchini said. 

With the Brown and Gold's decisive victory over their in-state rivals on Saturday, the Crusaders reached three wins in a season for the first time in six years. Valpo kept the Bulldogs out of the end zone for just the first time since 1945.