Smith receives STATS FCS National Freshman of the Week

THIBODAUX, La. – Nicholls State University redshirt freshman Tahj Smith added another award after STATS FCS named him National Freshman of the Week following his record-day performance in the win over Stephen F. Austin.

A native of LaPlace, Smith had only one carry before Saturday’s game against Stephen F. Austin, but two running backs left due to injury and the rookie came on to carry the ball 23 times for 177 yards and a touchdown in a 34-13 win. He scored on a 20-yard run and finished with the second-highest single-game rushing total in the Southland Conference this season. The win helped Nicholls (8-2, 7-1 SLC) to its first ranking in the STATS FCS Top 25 in more than 10 years – at No. 25.

In addition to his national honor, Smith was recognized earlier Monday by the Southland as offensive player of the week. Teammate Kenny Dotson received the conference’s award for defense after recording 3.5 sacks at SFA. Dotson was also recognized by STATS FCS, earning honorable mention for National Defensive Player of the Week.

Smith is the first Colonel to earn the national weekly nod since Sully Laiche received defensive honors last season following Nicholls’ double-overtime win over SFA.

The Colonels close out the regular season Thursday night at Southeastern Louisiana for the annual River Bell Classic. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.