Branch, Steele Honored by Rivals.com

Oct. 3, 2011

CLEMSON, SC – Clemson defensive end Kevin Steele have both been honored by Rivals.com. Branch was named the ACC Player of the Week by the national website and Steele was named the National Coordinator of the Week. It is the second time this year a Clemson coordinator was honored. Offensive coordinator Chad Morris won the honor when Clemson defeated Auburn earlier this year.

Steele’s defense held Virginia Tech to three points, the first time since 1995 the Hokies did not score a touchdown at home. Virginia Tech also had just 4.6 yards per pass attempt, 258 yards of total offense and converted just 4-16 on third downs.

Clemson’s defense had four sacks for 31 yards in the game and all four sacks were credited to Branch, who finished with 11 total tackles, tying his career high. He also was credited with six total tackles for loss, tying a Clemson record. The four sacks also tied a Clemson single game record.

Additionally, Branch was named ACC Defensive lineman of the Week, the National Defensive Player of the Week by College Sports madness and the College Football Performance Awards.

Branch’s selection as ACC Player of the Week by Rivals.com gives Clemson the overall ACC Player of the Week by the site for the third straight week. Tajh Boyd won the honor for the Auburn and Florida State games.