WASHINGTON, D.C. - Gallaudet University senior cornerback Tony Tatum (Gardendale, Ala.) was named Defensive Player of the Week for Division III by the Beyond Sports College Network (BSCN) website on Monday. The honor is the first of the season for Tatum who played a critical role in the Bison's decisive 47-27 victory over Catholic University of America last Friday night.

The star cornerback picked off two passes and even switched over to offense and scored a touchdown in Gallaudet University's first-ever win over Catholic in a rivalry that began in 1906. His first interception came in the second quarter, when he picked off Catholic quarterback Greg Cordivari at the Gallaudet 26. He tipped the ball into the air and corralled it into his chest as he fell to the ground for the interception. On the ensuing offensive possession for the Bison, Tatum made a rare appearance at wide receiver and out jumped his coverage in the corner of the end zone to bring down the 10-yard reception to give Gallaudet the 14-7 lead. Tatum, who was rarely thrown to, made a second interception in the third quarter when he picked off Cordivari (four interceptions) and returned it eight yards. He also returned one punt return for 24 yards in the first quarter.

Tatum was one of six players named Defensive Player of the Week by BSCN and he was one of two Eastern Collegiate Football Conference players to be honored as SUNY Maritime linebacker Keith Barnes was also selected. 

The Bison (1-1) are off this week but Tatum will look to continue his strong play when the team suits up against Apprentice School (1-1) on Saturday, Sept. 22, in their home opener. The game kicks off at 5 p.m. at Hotchkiss Field.