Mickens Named BIG EAST Player of the Week

Sept. 3, 2007

CINCINNATI-- University of Cincinnati cornerback Mike Mickens has been named the BIG EAST Conference Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in the 59-3 whitewashing of Southeast Missouri State.

Mickens intercepted two passes and carded six tackles in Thursday night's season opener. The junior from Huber Heights, OH made a leaping grab in the end zone to stop a Redhawks' drive in the first half. He followed that by stepping in front of a pass and sprinting 45 yards for his first collegiate touchdown to put Cincinnati in front 25-3 with 11:55 remaining in the third quarter.

The performance marked the first time a Cincinnati defender had tallied two interceptions in a game since Mickens accomplished the feat, in the 30-11 victory over then-No. 7 Rutgers, on Oct. 18, 2006. A two-time all-BIG EAST selection, Mickens has finished in the top eight nationally in passes defended in each of his first two seasons.

Mickens and the Bearcats return to the field on Thursday night when they host Oregon State. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.