Gustavus junior linebacker Tony Palma (Lino Lakes, Minn./Centennial) has been named MIAC Defensive Player of the Week for his play against Bethel University last Saturday. Palma played a key role in the Gusties’ defensive effort in a 17-10 win over the Royals in Arden Hills, Minn. as he tallied 12 tackles with six solo stops and an interception. His interception sealed the victory as he picked off a pass at the Gustavus seven-yard line with 00:48 remaining as Bethel threatened to tie the game.
The Gusties moved into a four-way tie for first place in the conference standings at 4-2 after winning its first game in Arden Hills since 1997. Gustavus, which is 6-2 overall, will face St. Olaf College, which is 4-4 overall and 2-4 in the MIAC, in Northfield on Saturday at 1 p.m.
This marks the fourth time this season a member of the Gustavus football team has been recognized. The others were running back Ray Wilson (Oct. 20), quarterback Jordan Becker (Oct. 27), and linebacker Paul Stommes (Sept. 15).